What to expect from ovarian cancer debulking surgery for primary peritoneal cancer

Primary peritoneal cancer affects the lining of the abdomen, so debulking is planned around the areas of visible disease rather than one single mass. Surgery may include removal of the omentum, uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes, plus deposits or involved tissue on abdominal surfaces. Samples help confirm what is present.

Scans guide preparation, but the surgeon makes the final assessment during the operation. The intended procedure can therefore be adjusted to balance cancer removal with safety and recovery.

Give the team a complete medicine list and mention previous operations, bowel or bladder symptoms and fertility wishes. Clarify fasting, bowel preparation and which medicines to take. Arrange an adult to accompany you home and practical help while movement is limited.

After discharge, follow wound and bathing instructions, take pain medicines as directed and walk gently to support recovery. Appetite and bowel function may take time to settle. Avoid lifting and demanding exercise until reviewed. Your follow-up will cover pathology, the surgical findings and any planned drug treatment.

Contact your team about fever, worsening abdominal pain, wound redness or discharge, repeated vomiting, inability to pass urine or stool, or new swelling in a leg. Get emergency help for chest pain, severe breathing trouble, collapse or heavy bleeding.

Ask which peritoneal areas may be treated, whether bowel or bladder work is possible, and how recovery will be monitored. Discuss pain control, nutrition, menopause symptoms, sexual wellbeing, activity limits and when the team will explain the tissue results.