This monograph summarizes state of the art knowledge regarding peritoneal surface malignancies, with in-depth description of treatment options and the results achieved to date. It explores the most challenging problems on the basis of the authors' very extensive clinical experience and examines the most relevant clinical trials. A comprehensive summary is provided of all phase 2 studies (the only available completed studies) and of ongoing and future phase 3 studies. Particular attention is paid to the results of integrated treatment comprising cytoreduction (peritonectomy) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Helpful background information is also included on the definition and clinical assessment of each clinical form.

The book, drawing on data from the entire Italian experience as well as world literature, will be an outstanding benchmark for health professionals and researchers.

Inhalt
Foreword.- Preface 1.- Preface 2.- Introduction.- Part 1 Background.- 1 Peritoneal surface malignancies: definition.- 2 Epidemiology: the extent of the problem.- 3: Intraperitoneal spread: origin and mechanisms.- 4 Pathology and patterns of molecular biology.- 5 Classification of intraperitoneal spread.- 6 Diagnosis and assessment: clinical, radiological, and laparoscopic.- Part 2 Treatment.- 7 Rationale for integrated procedures (combined cytoreduction and HIPEC).- 8 Peritonectomy techniques.- 9 HIPEC techniques.- 10 The role of surgery.- 11 The role of systemic chemotherapy.- 12 Anesthesiology and perioperative management.- 13 Patient selection for treatment.- 14 Morbidity and mortality.- 15 Organizational problems, costs, and data collection.- Part 3 Results of integrated treatment.- 16 Pseudomyxoma peritonei.- 17 Peritoneal mesothelioma.- 18 Peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer.- 19 Peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal cancer.- 20 Peritoneal carcinomatosis from ovarian and gynecological cancers.- 21 Other primary peritoneal surface malignancies.- 22 Peritoneal carcinomatosis from other primary tumors.- 23 Palliative treatments.- Part 4 Perspectives.- 24 New trials.- 25 Main topics of discussion and new trends.- Part 5 Conclusions.