Study protocol: phase 1 dose escalating study of Pressurized Intra-Peritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) with oxaliplatin in peritoneal metastasis

Background: Pressurized Intra-Peritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC) is a novel laparoscopic intraperitoneal chemotherapy technique, with advantages such as homogeneous distribution of aerosol and deeper tissue penetration. Thus far, PIPAC oxaliplatin has been administered at an arbitrary dose of 92 mg/m².

Aim: We aim to determine the dose-related safety profile and tolerability of PIPAC oxaliplatin using an evidence-based approach. The secondary aim is to evaluate clinic-pathologic response and the pharmacokinetic profile.

Methods: This is a phase I 3+3 dose escalation study for gastric and colorectal cancer with predominant peritoneal metastasis starting at a dose of 45 mg/m². Safety is assessed according to Clavien-Dindo Classification and Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.0). Clinico-pathologic response is assessed using the Peritoneal Regression Grading Score, Peritoneal Cancer Index, and Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumour criteria (version 1.1). Pharmacokinetic analysis is performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry assay. This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03172416).

Conclusions: This phase I study can provide the scientific basis to identify the optimal dose for PIPAC with oxaliplatin such that the benefits of this novel and promising intraperitoneal chemotherapy delivery technique can be maximized.