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Background. A prominent part of treatment failure of gastrointestinal and gynecologic malignancy is dissemination to peritoneal surfaces. This has been associated with a limited survival and no reliable treatment strategies. Methods. A review of the natural history of carcinomatosis was performed and a rationale for intraperitoneal chemotherapy was sought. The pharmacology of chemotherapy administration into the peritoneal cavity was reviewed. Results. The technology of perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy requires the administration of drugs along with moderate hyperthermia in the operating room as a planned part of the surgical procedure. The solution in which the chemotherapy is diluted has an effect upon the drug clearance from the peritoneal cavity. Also, the volume of the carrier solution affects the exposure of cancer nodules on peritoneal surfaces. Conclusions. New combinations of intraperitoneal chemotherapy administration when combined with optimal surgical technology for maximal chemotherapy effects should result in benefit to patients with peritoneal surface dissemination of gastrointestinal and gynecologic malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]