PIPAC for Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Current Insights and Future Directions

Digestive Surgery 2026 May 12 [Link]

Arianna Castagna, Aphrodite Fotiadou, Ali Ramouz, Preslava Gesheva, Niall Brindl, Wiebke Solass, Andreas Brandl

Abstract

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive tumour with poor prognosis, often diagnosed late due to nonspecific symptoms. Current standard treatment involves systemic chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC), but this approach is limited to selected patients. Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) has emerged as a novel technique improving drug delivery and penetration in the peritoneal cavity. This narrative review evaluates the role of PIPAC in the treatment of MPM, analysing data from clinical studies on its feasibility, safety, and efficacy. Evidence suggests that PIPAC is a well-tolerated procedure, with a manageable safety profile and potential to improve survival and tumour response in patients with unresectable or recurrent disease. Limitations in current studies include small cohorts and heterogeneous patient populations, underscoring the need for further research. PIPAC represents a promising therapeutic option, offering enhanced intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) delivery with minimal systemic toxicity. Future investigations should focus on optimizing treatment protocols and evaluating long-term benefits to better define PIPAC’s role in clinical practice.