Surgical Procedures for Mesothelioma: Understanding Extrapleural Pneumonectomy for Sarcoma

ByHolly Zink
Surgical Procedures for Mesothelioma: Understanding Extrapleural Pneumonectomy for Sarcoma

There are two common surgical procedures for mesothelioma: extrapleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy decortication. Extrapleural pneumonectomy involves removing the lung affected by mesothelioma.

Extrapleural pneumonectomy is a surgery. In it, part of the diaphragm and the linings of the lung and heart are also removed. This complex procedure is primarily performed in specialized centers. It is considered in cases of pleural-based sarcomas, among other conditions.

Outcomes of Adult Patients: Key Findings

A recent study described the characteristics and outcomes of adults who underwent extrapleural pneumonectomy for pleural-based sarcoma. Eight patients were included in the study. Primary outcomes were event-free survival and overall survival following the procedure.

A study found that extrapleural pneumonectomy rarely cures adults with pleural-based sarcoma. Their median event-free survival was 6.0 months, and overall survival was 20.7 months. Most patients saw their disease return, showing the procedure’s low effectiveness alone.

Selecting the right patients is key for successful extrapleural pneumonectomy. Factors like tumor type, time without disease, and response to chemotherapy predict survival. Patients with low or mid-grade tumors have longer disease-free intervals. They have better chances of survival.

Considerations for Multimodal Therapy

The study highlights the value of multimodal therapy with extrapleural pneumonectomy for better patient outcomes. Preoperative chemotherapy notably boosts survival rates.

Extrapleural pneumonectomy is an option in specific cases. However, more research is needed to fine-tune patient selection and treatments. This will require collaboration and more cases to enhance our understanding.

This surgery slightly benefits adults with pleural-based sarcoma. Selecting patients carefully and using various therapies are vital. As we learn more, personalized treatments will enhance mesothelioma care and outcomes.

Source:

Zhang, Betty Y., Ashley R. Wilson-Smith, Elizabeth A. Connolly, Madeleine C. Strach, Nathan Ussher, Tristan Yan, and Vivek A. Bhadri. “Extrapleural Pneumonectomy for Sarcoma: Outcomes of Adult Patients at a Specialized Center.” Cancer Reports 7, no. 4 (2024): e2065. https://doi.org/10.1002/cnr2.2065.

 

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