Peritoneal Cancer: Barcelona Hosts the PSOGI World Congress and Reinforces Its Global Leadership in Oncology

Peritoneal cancer is a rare and complex form of abdominal cancer and it remains one of the greatest challenges in modern oncology. It develops in the peritoneum, the delicate membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and surrounds its organs. Because of its diffuse nature, this cancer is often difficult to diagnose and treat, requiring the combined expertise of oncologists, surgeons, and researchers.

As medicine continues to advance, collaboration and knowledge exchange are more important than ever. That’s why hosting the Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI) World Congress in Barcelona has become a major milestone in the global fight against peritoneal malignancies.

The congress brought together the world’s foremost experts in oncologic surgery and clinical research to share the latest progress in treatment, innovation, and patient care. Among the leading participants were hospitals from the Barcelona International Hospitals (BIH) network, including Centro Médico Teknon, which showcased its extensive experience in managing peritoneal cancer and peritoneal metastases through advanced multidisciplinary strategies.

Barcelona: A Global Epicenter of Medical Innovation

Barcelona has long been celebrated for its culture and creativity, but today it’s equally recognized for its medical excellence. The city stands as one of Europe’s leading healthcare destinations, combining clinical expertise, academic research, and advanced technology.

Under the umbrella of Barcelona International Hospitals (BIH), the city brings together a group of top-tier private institutions that form a powerful ecosystem where science and human care go hand in hand. Each hospital has its own field of excellence, yet they all share a common purpose: to provide world-class medical care with compassion and precision.

Key BIH partner hospitals include:

• Centro Médico Teknon, a European reference in oncologic surgery and complex cancer treatment.
• Fundación Puigvert, specializing in urology, nephrology, and kidney transplantation.
• SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital, globally renowned in pediatric oncology and hematology.
• Institut Guttmann, a world-class center for neurorehabilitation and neuroscience.
• Barnaclínic+, part of Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, focused on high-complexity surgery.
• Hospital Quirónsalud Barcelona, a multidisciplinary hospital with advanced oncology programs.
• University Hospital Dexeus, one of Europe’s top centers for women’s health and reproductive medicine.

Together, these hospitals create a unique collaborative model in which experts from multiple disciplines work seamlessly as one. It’s a living example of integrated medicine, where innovation, data, and patient-centered care converge.

Understanding Peritoneal Cancer

Peritoneal cancer originates in the peritoneum — the thin layer of tissue that covers the abdominal organs. It can appear as a primary cancer (rare) or more commonly as secondary peritoneal metastases, spreading from other tumors such as those of the colon, stomach, ovaries, or appendix.

Unlike most other cancers, peritoneal malignancies don’t form a single localized tumor but instead spread across the surface of the peritoneum, making them especially challenging to treat. That is why treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgical expertise, oncology, and clinical research — the central theme of this year’s PSOGI Congress in Barcelona.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Peritoneal cancer often develops gradually, with vague symptoms that may be mistaken for other conditions. Recognizing them early is essential: abdominal swelling or bloating caused by fluid accumulation (ascites), pain or a sense of pressure in the abdomen, loss of appetite or persistent nausea, fatigue and weakness, unexplained weight loss.

Because these symptoms are non-specific, early detection is difficult. At BIH partner hospitals, diagnosis relies on advanced imaging and molecular tools — including CT, MRI, PET-CT, laparoscopy, and biomarker analysis — to accurately assess the extent of the disease and plan individualized treatment.

Cutting-Edge Treatment Approaches

Recent advances have revolutionized the way peritoneal cancer is treated. During the PSOGI World Congress, specialists discussed breakthrough therapies that are transforming patient outcomes.

The foundation of treatment today combines cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) — a comprehensive approach designed to remove all visible tumor tissue and eliminate microscopic cancer cells.

Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS)

This demanding procedure aims to surgically remove all detectable tumor deposits throughout the abdominal cavity. Its success depends on the skill of the surgical team and access to high-tech facilities — standards that BIH hospitals fully meet.

HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)

After surgery, the abdominal cavity is infused with a heated chemotherapy solution for up to 90 minutes. The heat enhances drug penetration and effectiveness, destroying residual cancer cells while limiting systemic toxicity.

PIPAC (Pressurized IntraPeritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy)

An emerging, minimally invasive option, PIPAC delivers chemotherapy as a fine aerosol under pressure, allowing uniform distribution and improved local absorption. It’s often used when traditional surgery is not feasible, offering new hope for patients with advanced peritoneal metastases.

These innovations represent a new era in oncology — one where treatments are more precise, personalized, and patient-friendly. And once again, Barcelona stands at the forefront of this progress.

Why Barcelona

The choice of Barcelona as the host city for the PSOGI Congress is far from coincidental. The city combines world-class infrastructure, internationally trained specialists, and a strong culture of medical research.

Hospitals within the BIH network are equipped for high-complexity procedures and adhere to the latest international oncology protocols. Many of their professionals have trained at leading European and North American centers. The result is a collaborative ecosystem, where clinical practice and research intersect every day.

Barcelona also stands out for its comprehensive programs for international patients. BIH coordination teams provide support at every step — from the first consultation and translation of medical reports to travel arrangements, hospitalization, and rehabilitation.

Hosting the PSOGI World Congress reaffirmed Barcelona’s role as one of the world’s leading destinations for peritoneal cancer treatment — a place where science, compassion, and innovation truly come together.

Why International Patients Choose BIH

For many patients worldwide, Barcelona represents more than a destination — it’s a place of trust and excellence.They choose Barcelona International Hospitals because of three core values: expertise, innovation, and human care. Physicians communicate fluently in English and other languages, the facilities use state-of-the-art equipment, and every aspect of the medical journey is transparent and guided.

Through its International Patient Departments, BIH ensures complete coordination so that patients can focus on their recovery with confidence. Learn more on the international services page. The PSOGI World Congress confirmed once again that Barcelona is a world leader in peritoneal cancer care. Here, cutting-edge technology, leading specialists, and compassionate care merge to create a new standard in global oncology.

If you are seeking expert guidance or advanced treatment, Barcelona International Hospitals are here to help. Contact BIH

Frequently Asked Questions about Peritoneal Cancer

What is peritoneal cancer and how is it different from abdominal cancer?

Peritoneal cancer originates in the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum), while abdominal cancer refers more broadly to tumors affecting organs within the abdomen.

Can peritoneal cancer be cured?

While peritoneal cancer is challenging, modern approaches such as CRS + HIPEC and PIPAC have dramatically improved survival and quality of life for many patients.

Where can I receive treatment for peritoneal cancer in Barcelona?

Treatment is available at leading BIH hospitals such as Centro Médico Teknon, Quirónsalud Barcelona, and Barnaclínic+, where multidisciplinary teams specialize in advanced oncologic surgery.

Are Barcelona hospitals suitable for international patients?

Yes. BIH hospitals provide full multilingual assistance, personalized medical coordination, and international insurance support.

Can I request a second opinion without starting treatment right away?

Absolutely. Barcelona International Hospitals offers second opinions and full diagnostic evaluations without commitment to treatment. The coordination team helps gather your records, arrange consultations, and explore the most suitable therapeutic options in Europe.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit our website: Barcelona International Hospitals.