In some cases, surgery for a patient with mesothelioma may extend and improve the quality of life. However, such surgery is serious and complicated. Consultation with a specialist is always best if considering this treatment option. One type of surgery, called a pleurectomy or decortication, involves opening the chest and removing the tumor from the lung. This procedure relieves chest pain and prevents the recurrence of effusions (the escape of fluid) in the pleura. Another type of surgery, extra pleural pneumonectomy, involves the removal of the lung, the diaphragm, or the lining of the heart. Gortex, a synthetic fabric, replaces the heart lining or diaphragm. After surgery, the patient undergoes chemotherapy and radiation to destroy any remaining cancer cells. A pneumonectomy involves the removal of a lung. This procedure generally occurs during a late stage of mesothelioma.
Thoracentesis or Paracentesis
Thoracentesis removes fluid from the lung lining, or pleura. The fluid that accumulates as part of mesothelioma can cause discomfort or shortness of breath. Once fluid is drained from the pleura, a form of talcum powder or other material may be applied that causes the lung to adhere to the chest wall. Paracentesis is a similar procedure to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity. If there is a chronic problem with fluid buildup, a catheter can be inserted to drain fluid on an as needed basis. Fluid removal can alleviate difficulty with breathing and chest pain. Consultation with a specialist is always best before pursuing thoracentesis or paracentesis.If you are a loved one and interested in pursuing an asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit, please contact us for more information.
We often get results in seven months or less. We can help you protect your family and get the compensation you deserve.
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