Mesothelioma Treatment (surgery)

Surgery is often used to treat mesothelioma. The two most common surgical interventions performed in the treatment of mesothelioma include:     

Extra pleural pneumonectomy - this is an aggressive procedure used mostly in the treatment of locally advanced malignant mesothelioma; it consisting of removing the lung, pleura, diaphragm and pericardium. The purpose of this surgery is to physically remove as much tumor as possible.  

During the surgery, a thoracicepidural catheter is placed preoperatively for intraoperativeand postoperative pain management. After inducing anesthesia and placing a left-sided double-lumen endotracheal tube,you will be laterally laid down.A nasogastric tube can be placed to facilitate localization of esophagus,ensure adequate stomach decompression, and minimize risk ofaspiration. This is a risky procedure; it is often performed on patients who are young and are able to undergo major surgery.    

Pleurectomy / decortication (P/D) -  this surgical procedure is performed mostly when the tumor is advanced. It involves the removal of the pleura to reduce the symptoms and pain caused by the cancerous mass. In addition, pleurectomy may also prevent or stop the recurrence of pleural effusion.    

Pleurectomy-decortication (PD) is radical procedure. Although reduces symptoms, pleurectomy-decortication is always associated with a long recovery period. In addition, you can experience serious complications that require constant medical care. In general, after the operation, you will be transferred to the Intensive Care Unit for several days or weeks.