Diseases Treated
Ovarian Cancer
Intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Recent results of the randomized clinical trial, GOG 172, reported in the New England Journal of Medicine on Jan. 5, 2006, shows that patients with ovarian cancer who receive optimal surgery followed by intraperitoneal (IP, into the abdominal cavity) chemotherapy have significantly better outcomes compared to IV chemotherapy. This just-reported trial demonstrated a seventeen-month survival advantage compared with standard intravenous (IV) chemotherapy. The National Cancer Institute has issued a statement defining this as the new standard of care for appropriate patients.
Doctors at Dana Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center have extensive experience with intraperitoneal (IP) treatments for ovarian cancer. We are currently using the GOG 172 regimen of IP treatment, as well as other IP approaches. In addition, we are actively involved in research aimed at reducing the toxicity and further advancing the efficacy of IP therapy, and have a number of clinical trials of intraperitoneal therapy available for patients with advanced ovarian cancer.
Further information regarding the treatment of ovarian cancer may be found at the following sites:
Intraperitoneal chemotherapy instructions and information
These instructions are solely for the use of Dana-Farber physicians and patients.
IV/IP instruction sheet (PDF)
A guide to the medications to be taken on each day of your chemotherapy cycle. Print it out and keep track of daily requirements.
Understanding and taking Neupogen (PDF)
An explanation of how to store and inject Neupogen.
Chemotherapy fact sheets (PDF)
Information about other medications administered during intraperitoneal chemotherapy, including possible side effects to watch for.
