PSOGI World News – April 2026: What Patients and Caregivers Should Know
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A quarterly newsletter with the latest news, views and announcements from Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI)
Led by pioneering surgical oncologist Dr. Paul Sugarbaker, PSOGI is a collaboration of experts from around the world on the treatment of peritoneal cancer and is dedicated to improving treatment and survival of patients with peritoneal metastases.
We are proud to share their quarterly newsletter.
This newsletter highlights new research on cancers that spread to the lining of the abdomen (called peritoneal metastases). Below is a simplified summary of each research update and what it may mean for patients.
Key Research Updates
1. HIPEC for Colorectal Cancer: Still Important, but Changing
Researchers studied whether HIPEC (heated chemotherapy delivered into the abdomen during surgery) improves outcomes.
A major study found no added survival benefit with one specific HIPEC approach
However, experts believe this does not mean HIPEC should be abandoned
Different drugs, timing, and methods may still provide benefit
What this means for patients: HIPEC is still an important treatment, but doctors are working to better understand how to use it most effectively for the right patients.
2. New Treatment (BromAc®) to Break Down Tumor Mucus
Some abdominal cancers produce thick mucus that can protect tumors.
A new therapy (BromAc®) helps break down this mucus
Early studies show it may shrink tumors and improve symptoms
Researchers are now studying how to combine it with surgery
What this means for patients: This could become a new option, especially for patients whose tumors cannot be easily removed.
3. Targeted Therapy for Appendix Cancer
A drug called palbociclib, already used in breast cancer, is being tested in rare appendix cancers.
Helped slow or stabilize cancer in many patients
Worked best in tumors with certain genetic features
Taken as a pill and generally well tolerated
What this means for patients: This may offer a new treatment option for people with advanced or recurring disease, particularly when other treatments are limited.
4. Chemotherapy Before Surgery: Not Always Helpful
Doctors examined whether giving chemotherapy before surgery improves outcomes.
It may help in some cases by shrinking tumors
However, many studies show no clear survival benefit
In some situations, outcomes may be worse
What this means for patients: Treatment decisions should be individualized. Surgery should not be delayed unless there is a clear reason to use chemotherapy first.
5. Moving Chemotherapy Earlier in Treatment
Researchers are studying chemotherapy delivered directly into the abdomen before surgery.
May be easier to tolerate than after surgery
Could reduce tumor size and improve surgical success
Clinical trials are ongoing
What this means for patients: This approach may improve outcomes and make treatment easier, but more research is needed.
6. Promising Treatment for Appendix Cancer
A chemotherapy drug called paclitaxel is being delivered directly into the abdomen.
Early studies show strong tumor shrinkage
May be more effective than standard intravenous chemotherapy
Initial patient results are encouraging
What this means for patients: This could become a more effective, targeted treatment for appendix cancer in the future.
7. Personalized Treatment Using “Mini Tumors”
Scientists can now grow a patient’s tumor in the lab (called organoids).
These models allow doctors to test different drugs
They may predict which treatments will work best
More accurate than older lab or animal models
What this means for patients: In the future, treatment plans may be tailored by testing therapies on a patient’s own tumor before starting treatment.
8. HIPEC for Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP)
Researchers evaluated the role of HIPEC in this rare condition.
Improves survival when used during the first surgery
Less clear benefit when used in repeat surgeries
Complete tumor removal remains the most important factor
What this means for patients: HIPEC is most useful during initial treatment, while decisions about repeat surgery require careful consideration.
9. HIPEC for Ovarian Cancer
Researchers are studying whether HIPEC improves outcomes in ovarian cancer.
Current results are mixed
Some studies show benefit, others do not
Large trials are ongoing
What this means for patients: HIPEC is not yet standard for all ovarian cancer patients, but future research may clarify its role.
Key Takeaways
Surgery remains the most important treatment for many patients
HIPEC continues to play a role, but its use is being refined
New treatments and targeted therapies are expanding options
Personalized medicine is becoming more achievable
Bottom Line
Research is steadily improving how abdominal cancers are treated. While there is no single breakthrough, these studies are helping doctors:
Choose the right treatment for each patient
Avoid unnecessary side effects
Improve long-term outcomes
Read the full April 2026 issue of PSOGI World News here:
