Appendix Cancer Treatment
Several treatment options are available for people with appendix cancer, including surgery and drug therapies such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy. The most effective treatment for you will depend on the size and stage of the tumor, as well as your overall health and preferences.
For most low-grade appendiceal neuroendocrine tumors, surgery is typically the most effective treatment. Smaller tumors are easier to remove completely, whereas larger ones can spread rapidly and may not respond to treatment.
Surgery
Surgery is a common treatment approach for appendix cancer. The type of surgery performed often depends on the cancer's stage. Potential surgical procedures include:
- Appendectomy: This surgery removes the appendix. Early-stage appendix cancers with tumors less than 1 or 2 centimeters in size may not need additional treatment.
- Hemicolectomy: This procedure removes the appendix, part of the large intestine, and nearby lymph nodes. It is generally used for larger, more aggressive tumors.
- Cytoreductive (debulking) surgery: As much of the tumor as possible will be removed, including parts of affected organs. This is typically needed for cancer that has spread throughout the abdomen.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is commonly administered along with surgery. Systemic chemotherapy drugs are given through a vein (intravenously) or by mouth (orally). It can be given before surgery or after surgery. Some patients require both.
In some cases, chemotherapy is delivered directly into the abdomen during surgery, a method called intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC). This direct application enhances the effectiveness of the treatment. There are two specific techniques for IPC:
- Early post-operative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (EPIC): This technique involves administering chemotherapy through a port into the abdomen three consecutive days after surgery.
- Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): This method uses heated chemotherapy drugs to wash the inside of the abdomen during surgery.
Some patients may require a combination of both EPIC and HIPEC.
Targeted Therapy
Patients diagnosed with advanced appendiceal carcinoid tumors may respond well to targeted therapy. Targeted therapy blocks the production of cancer cells due to certain genetic mutations while minimizing damage to healthy cells. The results of biomarker testing will help determine the most effective targeted therapies for you.
The Latest in Appendix Cancer Treatment at Virginia Oncology Associates
Virginia Oncology Associates offers a comprehensive approach to providing patients with the best possible care throughout their journey with appendix cancer. Patients in and around Hampton Roads and Eastern North Carolina can receive appendix cancer treatment close to home at one of our conveniently located offices. We are ready to help create a personalized treatment plan or provide a second opinion before you begin treatment.
Our clinics are located in Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Suffolk (Harbour View/Obici), Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Virginia, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina.
