In most cases, mesothelioma is usually not diagnosed until it has reached its later stages. This usually makes it impossible to cure. Scientists are currently developing tools that will make it easier to catch the disease earlier in its progression, making curative options more viable.

In the meantime, surgery for mesothelioma patients is usually done to help reduce their suffering. Some of the symptoms such as coughing, pain, and shortness of breath can be relieved. In some cases, it may also allow them to live longer.

Types of Surgery

There are many types of surgery offered to patients. Some of them are fairly simple and might occur more than once, while others may be more extreme and function as a last ditch effort. Here are some of the most common surgeries undergone.

Thoracentesis

This is the most commonly executed procedure. It is the removal of fluids from the area surrounding the lungs. It helps to reduce shortness of breath and pain in the chest. Thoracentesis can usually be done by an outpatient facility but if the patient is thought to be at high risk it may be performed in a hospital. Similar procedures can be used to reduce abdominal and heart mesothelioma.

Pleurodesis

This is when talc or similar chemicals are injected into the chest cavity of the patient. Pleurodesis procedure causes scars in the chest area that help to prevent fluids from returning. The American Cancer Society has found that the procedure is quite effective, being successful at eliminating or reducing fluid accumulation, at least temporarily, in most patients. The success rate is about ninety percent. The procedure does require anesthesia, so it must be performed in a hospital and the patient must stay for a short period of time.

Pleurectomy

One of the more complicated procedures that mesothelioma patients undergo, this involves the removal of the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura. A Pleurectomy is usually only done in the area where the tumor is located. The procedure helps to prevent the buildup of fluids, causing a reduction in pain and an improved ability to breathe.

Extrapleural Pneumonectomy

An extrapleural pneumonectomy is the most extreme surgery undergone by mesothelioma patients. This involves the removal of not only the pleura lining, but the chest wall, the pericardium, the diaphragm, and the entire lung on the side with the tumor. The pericardium and the diaphragm are then replaced with artificial materials. Only patients with localized mesothelioma of a specific type are able to undergo this type of surgery. The surgery is only performed if the doctor believes a cure might be possible. In order to qualify for the surgery, the patient must have excellent health considering their situation and must be able to survive a major operation that requires a long period of recovery. Very few doctors are qualified to perform the surgery as well, so in most cases relocation is necessary in order to receive an extrapleural pneumonectomy.