Pleural Pneumonectomy
Pleural Pneumonectomy is the surgical procedure that is used to remove the pleural lining of the lung in a patient affected from patient pleural mesothelioma. This kind of cancer mostly happens to people who have inhaled asbestos fibers in past, whether by working near asbestos containing products The asbestos fibers thus inhaled can get lodged in the pleural lining of the lungs and cause cancer in the long run. The detection of pleural mesothelioma is difficult because the symptoms only show up 30-40 years from exposure to asbestos and by then the cancer is in advanced stage.
Who Can Undergo Pleural Pneumonectomy
As the whole lung is removed in this kind of surgery the patient needs to be physically fit so that he can cope well with the post surgical medications and the recovery period. If the patient is physically fit and the cancer is detected in its early stages then the survival rates of the patient increase up to 10-12 years. Also, pleural pneumonectomy is advised when only the pleural lining of the lung is affected by the cancer cells and the cancer has not reached other parts of the body like the lining of the stomach and the heart.
The Surgical Procedure
The surgery is carried out by administering general anesthesia to the patient so that there is no sensation of pain. The surgeon then makes an incision to remove the pleural lining of the lung where the tumor is located. This can improve the breathing of the patient and also help in normal functioning of the lung. Removal of the pleural lining can also help in controlling the build up of fluid in lungs that can otherwise cause great discomfort and pain to the patient.
In cases where the cancer has reached an advanced stage the doctors might choose to remove the whole affected lung. For this the lung is deflated and major blood vessels are tied off, the lung is then cut off from the bronchus and ends of the bronchus are sutured to prevent any escape of air flow. A temporary tube is inserted in the layers of pleura to drain out blood, air and fluid.
Post Operative Care
After spending a few days of recovery in the ICU, the patient can be sent home. The patient is encouraged to walk so that there is not blood clot formation in the lungs, and the patient is also told to cough so that any mucus or impurities in lung are coughed out. Overall recovery depends on the patient’s health and doctor’s guidance.
At www.mesotheliomadoctorsgroup.com, you can find out information about various kinds of mesothelioma cancers, mesothelioma surgeries, and mesothelioma treatment options. Browse through our site for more information.