Predicting and managing intra-abdominal collections by image guided percutaneous drainage after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intra peritoneal chemotherapy: A five-year experience with 1313 patients

Introduction: Intraabdominal collections (IACs) are common following cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Inflammatory biomarkers and nutritional index (NI) may predict IACs. Management of IACs with image guided percutaneous drainage (IGPD) is an alternative to laparotomy.

Aim: To identify factors that predict IACs following CRS and HIPEC and to review outcomes following IGPD.

Method: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data from a national referral centre including patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC who developed IACs treated with IGPD, between January 2018 and March 2022. Propensity score matched cases were compared to evaluate the prediction of IACs. The outcomes of IGPD were reviewed.

Results: Intraabdominal collections developed in 106 (8.0 %) of 1313 patients and 101/106 underwent IGPD, under Ultrasound or CT guidance. Laparotomy was required in 5/106. In those undergoing IGPD, pre- and postoperative CRP and neutrophils were significantly elevated while pre- and postoperative albumin and NI were significantly lower than propensity score matched controls. The postoperative CRP and neutrophil count, and pre and postoperative albumin and mGPS were identified as independent predictors in multivariable analysis. IGPD improved clinical condition in 94 %. In 15/106(14.8 %) the aetiology of the IAC was anastomotic leak with left subphrenic collections the most common (24/101, 24 %). There were 4 major complications, 2 perforations of bladder during IGPD insertion and 2 post drain removal bleeds.

Conclusion: Intraabdominal collections following CRS and HIPEC can be predicted by inflammatory markers and nutritional index. Prompt use of IGPD results in good outcomes avoiding the need for laparotomy.