An update of peritonectomy procedures used in cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal malignancy.

Background

Complete cytoreduction is acknowledged to be an effective way to achieve macroscopic tumor clearance for a variety of tumors confined to the peritoneal cavity. Recent trials have shown that surgery respecting anatomical planes results in excellent outcomes and even the chance of cure for some from what was once thought to be life-limiting disease.

Objective

To describe peritonectomy procedures in the current era. Method: A thorough and systematic method for cytoreductive surgery aimed at complete surgical resection of peritoneal metastases (PMs) was described.

Results

The general principles of cytoreductive surgery were set out including preoperative preparation, patient positioning and incision. Strategies for assessing disease extent and planning surgical steps were outlined and established peritonectomy procedures such as Glisson's capsulectomy, omentectomy, left and right diaphragmatic peritonectomy, lesser omentectomy, stripping of the omental bursa, and pelvic peritonectomy were described. Novel techniques such as anterior pancreatic peritonectomy, small bowel mesenteric peritonectomy and cardiophrenic lymph node dissection were explained, and illustrated with accompanying video.

Conclusion

Peritoneal metastases present a challenge to the surgeon which calls for a unique skill set if optimal outcomes are to be achieved. Attempts to standardize the surgical techniques described will allow further refinement as new technological advances occur.