After receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis, your prognosis will depend on your age, health and the extent of your cancer. Pleural mesothelioma has stages ranging from I to IV. If you receive a diagnosis at an early stage, you may be a candidate for surgery.
Surgical intervention can cure cancer in some patients, but it can also help alleviate the symptoms.
Lung and tissue removal
To alleviate the symptoms associated with mesothelioma, you may undergo surgery to remove the tissue around your lungs. Surgeons will focus on the issue lining the ribs and the lungs.
In the early stages, your doctor may also suggest removing a lung and the surrounding tissue. When you remove the lung, it can relieve the signs of pleural mesothelioma. Many people continue to receive radiation following the procedure, but doctors can use higher doses without worrying about damaging the lung.
Fluid removal
When you have pleural mesothelioma, you may have fluid buildup in your chest. The fluid can make it difficult for you to breathe or function in your daily life. Fluid removal does not focus on curing cancer but on making the symptoms bearable. The surgeons can insert a catheter or tube into your chest to remove the fluid. Doctors may also inject medicine during surgery to prevent fluid from building up again.
Understanding the variety of treatment options available to you can help increase your chances of beating or living comfortably with the disease. Most surgical options can help you live with fewer symptoms.