A cutting-edge treatment pioneered at Norfolk's largest hospital is "extending the lives" of ovarian cancer patients, research has shown.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital has become the first in the country to offer a unique treatment called heated chemotherapy.

The procedure sees a solution of 40-42C temperature "washed through" a patient following complex surgery to kill off diseased cells in the abdomen and pelvis.

The breakthrough was made at the hospital two years ago and since then, 40 patients have received the treatment - with good outcomes reported.

Eastern Daily Press:

The very first patient to receive the treatment was Annette Mills, from north Norfolk, who had the therapy following a 13-hour operation.

Her surgery was immensely complex, including a mastectomy, hysterectomy, appendectomy, omentectomy and the removal of her spleen and part of her bowel - as she was being treated for breast and ovarian cancer.

She said: "It is an experience I would rather not have had, but when you are offered something that could save your life, you've got to do it.

"Everyone went through everything with me beforehand and, of course, I don't remember anything.

"The doctors and everyone were astounded by how well I was doing."

She added: "I am so grateful. I have not looked back.

"I wake up every day and think, great, here we go again with another day.

"Anybody who is offered it should go for it."

Two major hospitals have since followed in the N&N's lead in offering the treatment - The Christie in Manchester and the Royal Marsden in London.

Nikos Burbos, N&N consultant gynaecology surgeon, said: "At the moment we are treating 20-30 of our most advanced ovarian cancer patients a year.

"These are people who have the most aggressive form of cancer, but who we feel the benefit from this procedure.

"We have been carrying it out for nearly two years and we are extremely pleased with the outcomes we have seen.

"Research data from Europe suggests this is extending patient lives by a year on top of their expected survival rates."

Sam Higginson, N&N chief executive, said: "This is NNUH at its best. Our approach was that we wanted the best for our patients and being innovative is the best way to achieve that."