Essential Questions to ask if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Mesothelioma ***IMPORTANT***

Overview of Palliative Surgeries for Mesothelioma

Posted on: October 13, 2023 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

Palliative surgeries for mesothelioma are used to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life rather than to cure the disease. Let’s delve deeper into the procedures.

  1. Pleurodesis (pleural mesothelioma):
    • Purpose: This procedure aims to prevent the accumulation of fluid between the lung and the chest wall (pleural effusion) which can cause difficulty breathing.
    • Procedure: A chemical or drug is introduced into the pleural space, causing inflammation that binds the lung to the chest wall. This closes the space and prevents fluid from accumulating.
  2. Thoracentesis (pleural mesothelioma):
    • Purpose: This is a procedure to remove excess fluid from the pleural space. It can offer immediate relief from symptoms like shortness of breath.
    • Procedure: Using ultrasound or CT for guidance, a needle or small tube is inserted through the skin into the pleural space. The excess fluid is then drained.
  3. Paracentesis (peritoneal mesothelioma):
    • Purpose: Similar to thoracentesis but for the abdominal cavity, this procedure is done to remove excess fluid known as ascites, which can cause discomfort, bloating, and breathing difficulties.
    • Procedure: A needle or catheter is inserted into the abdominal cavity to drain the fluid. Ultrasound guidance may be used.
  4. Pericardiocentesis (pericardial mesothelioma):
    • Purpose: This procedure removes fluid from the sac surrounding the heart (pericardial space). Fluid accumulation here (pericardial effusion) can interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
    • Procedure: Under guidance (often echocardiography), a needle is inserted into the pericardial space, and the excess fluid is drawn out.

It’s worth noting that while these procedures provide relief from symptoms, they don’t treat the underlying cancer. These are typically combined with other treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies to manage mesothelioma.

Patients considering any procedure should discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives with their healthcare team.