Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
Studies have identified asbestos fibers within a few cosmetic talcum powders. The talc particles that are contaminated typically contain anthophyllite, tremolite, or Chrysotile asbestos.
The experts in nursing recommend talc-based pleurodesis surgery for pleural patients with mesothelioma. This is because it can increase the survival rate of mesothelioma and alleviate symptoms by removing excess fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
Pleurodesis is a minimally-invasive procedure to treat one of the most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma - fluid buildup in the pleura, the thin membrane that surrounds the lung. The procedure involves inserting a small tube into the chest cavity. The tube is filled with a mixture of talc the saline, and other substances. The pleural linings begin to stick together, which causes them to cause irritation.
Pleural mesothelioma patients that don't have pleural effusions enjoy higher quality of life than those suffering from this condition, which can cause pain and trouble breathing. Because of this, doctors suggest preventing the buildup of fluid through pleurodesis or other options for treatment like thoracentesis. Pleurodesis can be performed on either side of the body.
Researchers compared talc pleurodesis with more aggressive surgical options to treat mesothelioma. These included extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) and pleurectomy/decortication (P/D). Results indicate that patients who undergo pleurodesis live longer than those who receive more aggressive surgery.
Patients with a diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma are often prescribed chemotherapy to treat the cancer however, this can only prolong the duration of treatment by about 12 months. new mesothelioma treatment , a less-invasive procedure, can prolong duration of survival and lessen the pain. Pleurodesis is a less invasive procedure that can increase the chance of survival and reduce pain.
Mesothelioma is becoming more popular as a palliative therapy for patients with mesothelioma, especially because it can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments. A mesothelioma doctor can decide the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
In talc pleurodesis, a patient receives an oral dose of morphine and a local anesthetic for pain relief. A small tube is inserted into the chest cavity, and a mixture containing saline, talc and other ingredients is slowly added. After the talc is placed, a doctor will then remove the drain pipe and monitor for any complications. After the procedure patients must take painkillers prescribed by their doctor to ease any discomfort. Low blood pressure, fever, and flu-like symptoms can occur within the first few days following the procedure. These are rare. Patients should discuss the potential risks with a specialist in mesothelioma.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is the procedure doctors use to remove lymphatic effusions, or the fluid accumulation around one or both of your lung tissue. It can be performed in a hospital or a the doctor's office. The procedure is typically done while you are awake, however some patients are asleep. In those cases you'll require someone to take you home following the procedure.
Your healthcare provider will disinfect the area where they are going to insert the needle and then inject a numbing medicine. Then, they will move your body in order that they can reach the pleural space that is typically located between your ribs. They may also use ultrasound to locate the correct location.
After inserting the needle the doctor will then use a tube to remove the fluid from the pleural space. The pleural fluid will be assessed to determine what's causing the fluid buildup. It is possible that you will require additional tests such as an MRI or CT to determine the cause of your fluid buildup, and what treatment options are available.
After the pleural liquid is removed after which the doctor will close the needle and then cover it with a bandage. You might cough a little after this however, this is normal. Coughing can help expand your lungs and eliminate the excess fluid. You'll likely need to keep the bandage in place for around an hour. You may need to stay in the hospital for several days, depending on the reason for your fluid buildup and the amount of fluid removed during thoracentesis.
Your doctor will conduct an X-ray scan of your chest when you are ready to remove the bandage to make sure there were no issues during the procedure. It is possible that you will need another X-ray later, to ensure that all the fluid has gone.
Some people with blood clotting issues or who are taking medications to reduce clotting might not be able have a Thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks with you prior the procedure and will check your medical history to see if there are any reasons why it might not be safe for you. They will also do an examination of your blood to make sure that you don't suffer from a condition that makes it difficult for your body clot.
