Mesothelioma Treatment Options: Mesothelioma and Surgery
Mesothelioma cancer surgery plays a vital role in the management of this aggressive disease. It is a potential treatment option for those diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Surgical procedures aim to remove cancerous tissue, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient’s quality of life.
There are different surgical approaches, including pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) and extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) for pleural mesothelioma, as well as cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal mesothelioma. The choice of surgery depends on factors like cancer type, stage, and the patient’s overall health.
While surgery can provide relief and potentially extend life expectancy, it also carries risks, and not all patients are suitable candidates. Consulting with a specialized medical team and considering legal options related to asbestos exposure are crucial steps for individuals navigating a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Understanding the role of surgery, its potential benefits, and associated risks is paramount for those affected by mesothelioma, empowering them to make informed decisions and explore available resources for support and legal assistance.
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Surgery For Mesothelioma Cancer
- Before any surgery is considered for the treatment of a Mesothelioma patient’s overall health is carefully evaluated.
- Aggressive surgery for malignant Mesothelioma is aimed at long-term control and relief of painful symptoms.
- Surgical treatment for Mesothelioma patients will usually involve the removal of some of the lining of the chest or abdomen.
- Surgery is difficult in Pleural Mesothelioma patients when the disease is in later stages because the tumor has typically spread to other areas of the body, such as the abdominal cavity and lymph nodes.
- About In the early stages of diagnosis, surgery can be used to slow the advance of Mesothelioma cancer.
Mesothelioma Surgical Procedures
Biopsy: Surgical procedure that removes a small piece of the Mesothelium tissue for laboratory examination is used for definitive diagnosis of Mesothelioma.
Decortication: Surgical procedure that removes the surface layer, membrane, or fibrous cover of a body organ.
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy: Surgical procedure to remove one whole lung and part of the lining of the chest, part of the diaphragm, or lining of the sac around the heart.
Fine-Needle Aspiration: Physician removes fluid or a piece of tissue with a small needle inserted into a patient’s abdomen or chest.
Laparoscopy: Surgical procedure that allows physicians to view inside your abdomen to insert a tiny camera and surgical tools to obtain a small piece of tissue for examination.
Laparotomy: Surgical procedure that opens the abdomen to allow a surgeon to check for signs of Mesothelioma. Sample tissue is removed for testing.
Pleurodesis: Surgical procedure that uses chemicals or drugs to make the lung lining scar so it will stick to the lung. The scarring will stop the buildup of fluid.
Pleurectomy: Surgical procedure that removes part of the covering of the pleura, chest lining or surface of the lungs.
Thoracotomy: Surgical procedure that the chest to allow a surgeon to check for signs of Mesothelioma cancer. Sample tissue is removed for testing.
Thoracoscopy: Surgical procedure that allows a physician to view inside the chest with small incisions made between the ribs to insert a tube with a tiny video camera to see inside the chest cavity.
Wide Local Excision: Surgical procedure that that removes cancer along with some of the healthy surrounding tissue.
Side Effects from Surgery for Mesothelioma Cancer
Some potential side effects of surgery for mesothelioma cancer may include:
Pain: Discomfort or pain at the surgical site is common after the procedure.
Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy, which may persist during the recovery period.
Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection at the surgical site, which may require additional treatment.
Bleeding: Surgical procedures may lead to bleeding, and in some cases, this may require medical attention.
Blood Clots: Surgery can increase the risk of developing blood clots, which may lead to complications if they travel to other parts of the body.
Scarring: Depending on the type and extent of the surgery, scarring may occur at the incision site.
Respiratory Issues: Surgery near the chest area may cause temporary or long-term respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing or reduced lung function.
Nerve Damage: There is a risk of nerve damage during surgery, which may result in numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area.
Digestive Problems: Some individuals may experience digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel movements following surgery.
Loss of Function: In some cases, surgery may result in the loss of function or mobility in the affected area, depending on the extent of the procedure and the location of the tumor.
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Factors Considered in Choosing Surgery for Mesothelioma
- Patients age
- The degree which cancer has spread
- Location of tumor
- Patients overall physical health
- Size of the tumor
- Stage of cancer – 1-4 Mesothelioma stages
- Type of Mesothelioma
- Early Diagnosis for Malignant Mesothelioma will give a patient more treatment options.
Malignant Mesothelioma has been linked to workplace asbestos exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs) About Mesothelioma Surgical Procedures
What is Mesothelioma Surgery?
Mesothelioma surgery is a medical procedure aimed at treating mesothelioma, a cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure. It involves the removal of cancerous tissue to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.
What Are the Types of Mesothelioma Surgery? Common types of mesothelioma surgery include pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) and extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) for pleural mesothelioma, as well as cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal mesothelioma.
Am I a Candidate for Mesothelioma Surgery? Eligibility for surgery depends on factors such as cancer type, stage, and the patient’s overall health. A comprehensive evaluation by a mesothelioma specialist is crucial to determine candidacy.
What Are the Risks Associated with Mesothelioma Surgery? Surgery carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. The extent of these risks varies based on the patient’s health and the specific surgical procedure.
How Can I Find Legal Assistance for Mesothelioma Surgery-Related Lawsuits?
If you believe your mesothelioma is linked to asbestos exposure, consult experienced attorneys specializing in asbestos litigation. They can help assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
What Role Does Surgery Play in Mesothelioma Lawsuits?
Surgery and its outcomes may be significant factors in mesothelioma lawsuits. Legal professionals can help determine if negligence or asbestos exposure contributed to the disease.
Where Can I Learn More About Mesothelioma Surgery and Legal Rights?
For comprehensive information about mesothelioma surgery and legal rights, consult experienced attorneys and trusted online resources dedicated to mesothelioma awareness and support.
3 Main Mesothelioma Treatments
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be given orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with other treatments like surgery or radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy employs high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be delivered externally or internally and is often used to shrink tumors before surgery or to kill remaining cancer cells after surgery.
Surgical Procedures: Surgical procedures involve the removal of cancerous tissue. Depending on the extent of the disease, surgeries like pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy may be performed to remove affected tissues or organs.
Other Mesothelioma Treatments: In addition to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, other treatments like immunotherapy and targeted therapy are being researched and used in mesothelioma care. These treatments aim to boost the body’s immune response or target specific cancer cells, offering new hope for patients.
Mesothelioma Symptoms Include:
Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer primarily caused by asbestos exposure, presents a range of challenging symptoms that can significantly impact the lives of those affected. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management. In this article, we’ll explore the various signs and symptoms associated with mesothelioma to help individuals recognize potential warning signs and seek timely medical attention.
Abdominal bloating: Mesothelioma can lead to fluid accumulation in the abdomen, resulting in abdominal bloating.
Abdominal pain: Tumors developing in the abdomen can cause persistent abdominal pain.
Anemia: Anemia may result from chronic inflammation associated with mesothelioma.
Bowel obstruction: Tumors can obstruct the bowels, leading to bowel obstruction and related symptoms.
Blood clotting abnormalities: Mesothelioma can affect blood clotting factors, increasing the risk of abnormalities.
Chest pain: Chest pain often occurs due to tumors in the chest cavity irritating the pleura.
Chronic dry cough: A persistent dry cough is a common symptom, often linked to pleural mesothelioma.
Chronic fatigue: Chronic fatigue is a consequence of the disease’s taxing effects on the body.
Coughing up blood: Coughing up blood may result from damage to the airways or lung tissue.
Difficulty breathing: Mesothelioma can restrict lung function, causing difficulty in breathing.
Difficulty swallowing: Tumors near the esophagus can make swallowing challenging.
Dyspnea: Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is a prevalent symptom due to lung involvement.
Fatigue and weakness: The disease’s progression often leads to fatigue and weakness.
Fluid build-up in the lungs: Pleural mesothelioma can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs.
High Fever: An elevated temperature may result from the body’s response to inflammation caused by mesothelioma.
Nausea: Nausea can occur due to the disease’s impact on the digestive system or as a side effect of treatment.
Neck Swelling: Swelling in the neck may occur if lymph nodes are affected by the cancer.
Pain in the abdomen: Abdominal pain can result from tumor growth or irritation of surrounding tissues.
Palpitations: Palpitations may occur due to the stress and anxiety associated with a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Shortness of breath: This common symptom is often related to lung involvement by mesothelioma.
Swelling in the abdomen: Abdominal swelling is a consequence of fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity.
Tumors around the abdomen: The presence of tumors in the abdomen can lead to various symptoms, including pain and discomfort.
Tumors around the lungs: Tumors in the lung lining can cause chest pain, coughing, and breathing difficulties.
Tumors around the heart: Pericardial mesothelioma can lead to tumors around the heart, resulting in chest pain and other cardiac symptoms.
Unexplained weight loss: Weight loss is often a sign of advanced mesothelioma and can occur due to decreased appetite and the body’s response to cancer.
Recognizing the symptoms of mesothelioma is vital for early diagnosis and intervention. If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, particularly if there is a history of asbestos exposure, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. Early detection can lead to more treatment options and potentially better outcomes. Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone, as there are medical professionals and legal experts who can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
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What is Mesothelioma Cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other major organs in the body. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cancer cells in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). In the United States, approximately 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. If you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
If you or a family member has received a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, you probably have numerous questions about managing the illness and pursuing legal recourse against asbestos manufacturers and companies accountable for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is an extremely lethal disease, with an average survival time of 4-18 months, as per the American Cancer Society. Reach out to our toll-free number now to connect with a live mesothelioma counselor who can address many of your inquiries and offer you the reassurance you seek.
Family Member Died from Mesothelioma?
If you have a family member who has died from Mesothelioma cancer, you should immediately consult with an experienced Mesothelioma diagnosis lawyer about what compensation may be available to you from asbestos trust funds that total more than $30 billion.
We have seen many families lose their right to file a lawsuit because their Statute of Limitations had expired while they were grieving. We know it is a tough time to grieve the loss of a loved one, but please do not let your Statute of Limitations expire for filing your Mesothelioma lawsuit. In most states, the Statute of Limitations is 1-3 years.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you file your Mesothelioma claim within your state’s Statute of Limitations.
Mesothelioma Latency Period
Mesothelioma has a long latency period of 10-50 years. Many Veterans, Shipyard Workers, Construction Workers, Power Plant Workers, Mill Workers, Steel Workers, Railroad Workers, Pipefitters, Insulators, Electricians, Carpenters, Welders, Auto Mechanics, Veterans, Factory Workers, and laborers are living in the early stages of a variety of asbestos related diseases. Many Mesothelioma lawyers will not accept asbestosis, asbestos lung cancer, pleural plaques, pleural thickening, colon cancer and esophageal cancer cases.
About Mesothelioma Attorneys
Mesothelioma attorneys specialize in helping individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure secure economic damages. These damages are vital financial compensation that aims to alleviate the financial burdens accompanying mesothelioma.
Economic damages cover a wide range of expenses, including medical bills for surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, medications, and ongoing medical care. They also address lost wages and future earning capacity, acknowledging the impact mesothelioma can have on one’s ability to work.
To navigate the complexities of economic damages, mesothelioma attorneys provide essential expertise. They assess eligibility, gather crucial evidence, and advocate tirelessly to secure the compensation individuals rightfully deserve. Economic damages are a crucial lifeline for mesothelioma patients and their families, helping them manage the financial implications of this challenging disease.
Taking Legal Action
When confronted with the devastating impact of a mesothelioma diagnosis resulting from asbestos exposure, pursuing legal action becomes a crucial step towards securing the compensation you rightly deserve. Our team is here to assist you in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, ensuring the protection of your rights and the delivery of justice. Discover today which Asbestos Trust Funds you may be eligible for to receive compensation.
Schedule a FREE Case Consultation
Scheduling a free case consultation is your first step toward seeking justice in mesothelioma cancer lawsuits. We are ready to assess your unique situation and provide the guidance you will need during this challenging time. Take this essential step toward pursuing fair compensation for your mesothelioma-related injuries.
Get Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
When dealing with the complexities of mesothelioma cancer lawsuits, getting help from an experienced injury attorney is crucial. For more than 24 years, we have assisted workers, veterans, and families in obtaining the compensation they deserved from negligent asbestos companies. Contact us at 888.640.0914 to secure the support you will need throughout your pursuit of fair and just compensation.
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Mesothelioma Treatment Options: Mesothelioma and Surgery