DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically proven, Stage III/IV ovarian carcinoma that is refractory or recurrent within 1 year of complete response to intraperitoneal or intravenous platinum-based chemotherapy Debulking surgery must have been considered at the completion of prior chemotherapy (failure to debulk does not exclude) Clinical or radiographic evidence of advanced, predominantly peritoneal disease on physical exam, CT or MRI scan, exploratory laparotomy, or peritoneal cytology or by elevated CA-125 (above 35 units in Ottawa Civic or General Hospitals) required Disease limited to peritoneal cavity not required, but peritoneal disease should constitute the main life-threatening or symptom-producing component Good distribution of contrast medium throughout peritoneal cavity on CT of abdomen and pelvis required Measurable, evaluable, or unevaluable disease of any size acceptable