Being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, such as mesothelioma, can be overwhelming, leaving many with questions about their treatment options. A pleurectomy is a common mesothelioma surgery to remove the affected tissue from the lungs. While it is a popular mesothelioma treatment, it is critical to understand what to expect from the procedure and its benefits so you can make an informed decision about your health.
Mesothelioma treatments can be expensive, and many victims often must contend with financial challenges in addition to their physical and emotional burdens. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may have grounds to pursue legal recourse for the losses you have suffered. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to helping our clients recover the maximum compensation for their claims. Our esteemed principal attorney, Joe Williams, has never lost a mesothelioma case and will work tirelessly to achieve a favorable outcome on your behalf.
Pleurectomy, also known as pleurectomy decortication (P/D), is a surgical procedure used to treat malignant pleural mesothelioma, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. This lung-sparing surgery involves removing the pleural lining and any visible tumors, with the goal of relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and potentially extending survival. Pleurectomy is often performed on patients with early-stage pleural mesothelioma, and it can be an effective treatment option when combined with other therapies, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
A pleurectomy typically goes hand-in-hand with another procedure known as a decortication. Thoracic surgeons, who specialize in surgeries of the chest, play a crucial role in performing pleurectomy procedures. A pleurectomy involves opening the chest to remove the lung’s pleural lining and any cancerous tissues. Then, decortication is performed to eliminate visible tumor masses from the lung’s surface and the surrounding chest area.
Traditionally, specialists view pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) as a treatment to provide relief, focusing on easing symptoms and enhancing quality of life. This procedure is often the first choice to treat individuals with pleural mesothelioma.
Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) is a surgical procedure involving carefully removing the pleura, the lung’s external lining, and any cancerous tumors visible within the chest. A key goal of P/D, along with other surgical interventions for mesothelioma, revolves around eliminating all tumor tissue visible without microscopic aid. Typically, the more cancer tissue the surgeon can remove, the greater the likelihood of improving the patient’s survival rates.
P/D is frequently integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan to attempt to remove all cancer cells thoroughly. These treatment plans often incorporate additional measures like chemotherapy and radiation therapy to find the most effective combination to extend the patient’s life.
The two-part pleurectomy and decortication surgery lasts between four to six hours. During the procedure, the surgical team meticulously ensures the protection of vital chest structures.
Starting with general anesthesia, the patient is positioned on their side in the operating room for optimal access to the chest. An incision between the ribs, known as a thoracotomy, is made, and the sixth rib is removed to access the chest cavity. The surgical team then carefully detaches and removes the outermost layer of the pleura, addressing any tumors on the diaphragm or heart lining as necessary.
The decortication phase follows, focusing on removing the pleura closer to the lungs and any tumor-invaded lung tissue, aiming to remove as much cancer as possible. After the incisions are closed, the patient moves on to the recovery stage, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
A pleurectomy offers several benefits for mesothelioma patients, including the following:
While a pleurectomy is a popular mesothelioma treatment option, discussing your options with a qualified specialist is essential. Your surgeon will be able to review your treatment options and advise you on the best path forward.
Mesothelioma diagnosis typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as chest X-rays and CT scans, and a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells. The biopsy can be performed using various methods, including fine-needle aspiration, thoracoscopy, or open biopsy. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, further tests may be conducted to determine the stage of the cancer and identify any lymph nodes or other areas of the body that may be affected. Accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining the best course of treatment for pleural mesothelioma patients.
The life expectancy and prognosis for pleural mesothelioma patients vary depending on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. Generally, patients who undergo pleurectomy decortication surgery tend to have a better prognosis than those who do not receive surgical treatment. According to the National Cancer
Database, the median survival for patients with pleural mesothelioma is around 12-18 months, but some patients may live for several years with proper treatment and care. Clinical trials and emerging treatments, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy, may also improve life expectancy and prognosis for mesothelioma patients.
Receiving a diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma can be devastating, and it’s essential for patients and their families to seek support and guidance throughout the treatment process. Coping with mesothelioma symptoms, such as chest pain and difficulty breathing, can be challenging, but there are various resources available to help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Patients can benefit from connecting with other mesothelioma patients, joining support groups, and seeking counseling to cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease. Additionally, healthcare teams can provide guidance on managing symptoms, navigating treatment options, and accessing clinical trials and other resources to help patients and their families navigate the complex journey of treating mesothelioma.
Reviewing your treatment options for mesothelioma can be daunting, making it essential to have a trusted legal partner by your side. At The Williams Law Firm, P.C., we understand the complexities of your situation. Our team is dedicated to safeguarding your rights and ensuring you receive the attention and compensation you deserve during this challenging time.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. You can reach our dedicated team at (855) 575-6376 or by completing our contact form. We are here to fight for you.
As the founding partner of Williams Law Firm, Joseph P. Williams has dedicated over 30 years to representing mesothelioma victims and their families. His firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for those affected by asbestos exposure, offering personalized, aggressive legal advocacy. Based in New York, Williams Law Firm provides free consultations and handles cases nationwide.
