Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
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Experts in nursing recommend talc pleurodesis surgery for pleural patients with mesothelioma. This is because it improves mesothelioma survivorship rates and relieves symptoms by removing excess fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
The minimally invasive procedure of Pleurodesis helps manage the primary problem with pleural Mesothelioma that is the accumulation of fluid within the pleura (the thin membrane that surrounds lung tissue). The procedure involves inserting a small tube inside the chest cavity, which is then filled with a combination of saline and talc. This irritates the pleural linings, causing them to stick to one another, sealing the area, which allows fluid to flow.
Patients with pleural mesothelioma that do not suffer from pleural effusions have a better quality of life. This problem can cause pain or breathing problems. Due to this, doctors recommend preventing fluid buildup by pleurodesis or other treatment options like thoracentesis. Pleurodesis is typically performed on the right side of the body, however it can also be performed on the left.
Researchers examined talc pleurodesis in comparison to more invasive surgical options to treat mesothelioma. These included extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) and pleurectomy/decortication (P/D). The results show that patients who have pleurodesis are healthier than those who undergo more invasive surgeries.
Patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma pleural are usually prescribed chemotherapy to fight the cancer but this only extends survival by a mean of 12 months. Pleurodesis is a less-invasive procedure that can add time to life and reduce pain and discomfort. Pleurodesis can be done before or after mesothelioma treatment, and it is also possible to combine with other forms of treatment for cancer like chemotherapy or radiation.
For this reason, mesothelioma talc is gaining recognition as a viable palliative treatment for mesothelioma patients especially when it is used in conjunction with other types of cancer treatments. A mesothelioma specialist can determine which treatment is best for each patient.
During talc pleurodesis the patient receives the drug orally as well as a local anesthetic for pain control. A small tube is inserted into the chest cavity and a mixture of saline and talc is slowly added. A doctor will remove drain taps once the talc is placed and continue to watch for any signs of complications. After the procedure patients will be required to take medications prescribed by their doctor to manage any discomfort. Some complications of this procedure include low blood pressure, fever and flu-like symptoms that can be felt for a day or two after the procedure. However, these are uncommon. Patients should discuss the potential risks with a specialist in mesothelioma.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is the procedure doctors use to remove the pleural effusions or fluid accumulation around one or both of your lung tissue. It can be done in a hospital or a the doctor's office. It is typically performed when you are awake however, some patients are asleep. In these situations, you'll need someone to drive home afterward.
Your healthcare provider will first sterilize the area in which they will inject the needle, and then inject an analgesic medicine. Then, they will move your body so they can access the pleural space that is typically located between your ribs. They may also use ultrasound to help locate the proper area.
After inserting the needle the doctor will use a tube to remove the fluid from the pleural space. The pleural fluid will then be assessed to determine what's creating the fluid buildup. You may require further tests such as an MRI or CT to determine the cause of the fluid buildup and what treatment options are available.
After the pleural fluid is removed, your doctor will close the needle hole and cover it with a bandage. There is a slight chance of coughing following the procedure. The act of coughing can help your lung expand and eliminate of the excess fluid. It is likely that mesothelioma life expectancy with treatment you will need to keep the bandage on for approximately an hour. You might need to remain in the hospital for a few days, based on the reason for the buildup of fluid and the amount of fluid drained during the procedure.
When you are ready have the bandage removed and your doctor will perform an X-ray of your chest to make sure that no complications occurred during the procedure. You might need to undergo another X-ray afterward, to ensure that all fluid is gone.
Certain people with a blood-clotting disorder or use medications to reduce blood clotting could not be able thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks of the procedure with you and review your medical records to determine if the procedure is suitable for you. They will also perform tests on your blood to make sure that you do not have a medical condition that makes it difficult for your body to make clots.