Mesothelioma is a deadly, aggressive cancer that is almost primarily caused by asbestos exposure. It attacks the special type of cell that forms the lining of your internal organs and body cavities. Of course, as the primary method of asbestos exposure is through inhalation, mesothelioma most often occurs in the lining of the lungs. This is called pleural mesothelioma, and it sometimes requires a surgical procedure called a pleurectomy.
The lining of your internal organs and body cavities is called the mesothelium. The mesothelium is responsible for secreting a lubricating fluid that prevents chafing between different organs. Sometimes, though, cancers like mesothelioma can disrupt the natural secretion and draining process of this fluid. In these cases, the mesothelium can sometimes produce too much fluid. The lubricating fluid can fill the chest cavity, preventing your lungs from having the space to fully expand. This is called pleural effusion.
Additionally, tumors in the pleural mesothelium can painfully press into lung tissue, and they have the possibility of metastasizing and spreading the cancer elsewhere. Thus, doctors may choose to remove this diseased lining through a surgery called a pleurectomy.
With a pleurectomy, doctors locate the diseased tissue and make an incision above it. They will open your chest cavity or use a camera to see into the thoracic cavity. Surgeons then remove the cancerous lining from your lungs and sometimes from the chest wall. In some cases, doctors can also remove tumors that have grown in the lung tissue itself. If your doctors have chosen to administer radiation through brachytherapy, they can insert the radioactive source after your surgery. When the procedure is over, doctors will close the incision and prepare you for recovery.
Unfortunately, mesothelioma is a very aggressive form of cancer, and pleurectomy is sometimes simply used for palliative measures rather than as a cure for the disease.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to understand the disease so that you can help choose the best treatment for you. Knowing more about mesothelioma can also help you feel more in control of the situation. For more information regarding mesothelioma, please visit the Mesothelioma Help Center today.
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