WhiskersSurgery for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure, affecting the pleura (lining of the lungs) and other organs. Surgery is a critical component of the treatment plan for patients diagnosed with Mesothelioma, particularly in early stages. This article discusses the main surgical procedures used to treat Mesothelioma: pleurectomy/decortication and extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Pleurectomy/Decortication
Pleurectomy/decortication is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the pleura, which is the thin membrane surrounding the lungs, along with any visible tumors. This surgery aims to relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain while improving the patient's quality of life.
Procedure Overview
The pleurectomy/decortication procedure typically involves the following steps:
- The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
- An incision is made in the chest wall to access the pleural space.
- The surgeon carefully removes the affected pleura and any tumors present.
- Once the surgery is complete, the chest is closed, and a drainage tube may be placed to remove excess fluid.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits of pleurectomy/decortication include:
- Reduction of symptoms related to pleural effusion.
- Improved lung function and capacity.
- Potential for improved survival when combined with other treatments.
However, like any surgical procedure, it carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and complications related to anesthesia.
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy
Extrapleural pneumonectomy is a more extensive surgical procedure that involves the removal of an entire lung, the pleura, and some surrounding tissues. This approach is typically considered for patients with early-stage Mesothelioma who are otherwise healthy enough to undergo major surgery.
Procedure Overview
The extrapleural pneumonectomy procedure involves the following steps:
- The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
- An incision is made in the chest, and the entire lung on the affected side is removed along with the pleura and surrounding tissues.
- The surgical site is carefully closed, and drainage tubes are often placed to remove any excess fluid.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits of extrapleural pneumonectomy include:
- Complete removal of the tumor and affected lung, which may improve survival rates.
- Potential for significant symptom relief.
However, the procedure is associated with higher risks, including:
- Increased likelihood of complications such as infection and prolonged recovery time.
- Possible impact on lung function and respiratory capacity.