Surgical Procedures for Mesothelioma: Understanding Extrapleural Pneumonectomy for Sarcoma

Surgical Procedures for Mesothelioma: Understanding Extrapleural Pneumonectomy for Sarcoma

ByHolly Zink

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…

Mesothelioma Study: Quality of Life “Acceptable” with Pneumonectomy
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Mesothelioma Study: Quality of Life “Acceptable” with Pneumonectomy

ByAlex Strauss

Mesothelioma patients who undergo lung removal surgery (pneumonectomy) can still enjoy an acceptable quality of life, in spite of the risks associated with the surgery. That is the conclusion of a seven-year Italian study on patients who had pneumonectomy for either lung cancer or mesothelioma between January 2003 and March 2010.  A Total of 71 patients were enrolled in the study. Twenty-six of them had their right lung removed while 31 had left-sided pneumonectomy. Eleven patients had more extensive pneumonectomies that also involved removal of structures other than the lung, such as parts of the trachea, diaphragm or lung lining. At one-year, 93% of the mesothelioma and lung cancer patients who had undergone pneumonectomies were still alive, although all had begun…