Samantha Ruff, MD
Samantha Ruff, MD, an assistant professor and surgical oncologist, recently performed UVA’s first Cytoreduction Surgery (CRS) with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC), marking a significant milestone in cancer treatment at the institution.
Cytoreduction Surgery involves removing all visible cancer from the abdomen and is often used in combination with HIPEC, which involves circulating heated chemotherapy in the abdomen to treat microscopic cancer cells left behind. This dual approach is particularly effective for patients with metastatic peritoneal cancers such as appendiceal, colon, gastric, ovarian, or mesothelioma.
Although HIPEC has been used for decades, ongoing research continues to improve patient selection to maximize its benefits. Dr. Ruff, who has extensive experience in CRS/HIPEC, led the multidisciplinary team through UVA’s first case. The operation required careful coordination across multiple departments and significant preparation to ensure success. The procedure went smoothly, with patients typically requiring a hospital stay of 7–10 days, followed by a few weeks of recovery during which they may experience fatigue or reduced appetite before resuming normal activities.
Looking ahead, the potential for CRS/HIPEC is growing. Researchers and clinicians are working to expand its use while enhancing their understanding of which patients will derive the greatest oncologic benefit. This innovative procedure represents a promising step forward in personalized cancer care.
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- Surgical oncology team setting up for the first HIPEC procedure.
Filed Under: Clinical