Peritoneal metastasis is a condition that occurs when cancer cells spread to the lining of the abdomen. PMP surgery is a procedure that aims to remove the cancerous tissue and prevent the spread of cancer cells. Although PMP surgery is generally considered safe and effective, like any other surgical procedure, it carries certain risks and complications. The possible complications of PMP surgery include:
Bleeding: PMP surgery involves the removal of cancerous tissue, which can cause bleeding. Although bleeding is usually controlled during surgery, in some cases, it may continue after surgery, leading to complications such as anemia or blood clotting.
Infection: Surgery can increase the risk of infection. In PMP surgery, the risk of infection is higher because it involves the removal of cancerous tissue, which can be more prone to infection. Infections can cause fever, pain, inflammation, and may require additional treatment, including antibiotics or even further surgery.
Bowel obstruction: PMP surgery may cause bowel obstruction, a condition in which the intestine is blocked, preventing the passage of food and waste. Bowel obstruction can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting, and may require additional surgery to correct the issue.
Adhesion formation: Adhesions are scar tissue that forms after surgery. In PMP surgery, adhesions may form in the abdominal cavity, causing pain, bowel obstruction, and even infertility.
Organ injury: PMP surgery involves removing cancerous tissue from the lining of the abdomen, which may lead to injury to the abdominal organs such as the liver, spleen, or bowel. Organ injury can cause bleeding, infection, or require additional surgery to correct the issue.
Fluid accumulation: PMP surgery may cause fluid to accumulate in the abdominal cavity, leading to swelling, discomfort, and in severe cases, respiratory distress.
Anesthesia complications: PMP surgery requires general anesthesia, which carries certain risks, such as allergic reactions, respiratory complications, and cardiovascular complications.
Recurrence of cancer: Although PMP surgery aims to remove all cancerous tissue, there is a risk of cancer recurrence. The risk of recurrence may be higher if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body or if the surgical margins are not clear.
Death: Although rare, PMP surgery carries a risk of mortality, mainly due to complications such as bleeding, infection, or anesthesia complications.
In conclusion, PMP surgery is a complex surgical procedure that carries certain risks and complications. Patients should discuss the benefits and risks of PMP surgery with their healthcare providers and should be aware of the possible complications to make informed decisions about their treatment options. By choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-operative care instructions, patients can reduce their risk of complications and improve their chances of a successful outcome.