Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
Studies have found asbestos fibers in some cosmetic talcum powder products. The talc particles that are contaminated typically contain anthophyllite, tremolite, or chrysotile asbestos.
The experts in nursing recommend talc-based pleurodesis surgery for patients with mesothelioma. This is due to the fact that it increases mesothelioma survival rates and eases symptoms by removing excess fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
The minimally invasive procedure of Pleurodesis helps treat the main problem with pleural Mesothelioma which is the accumulation of fluid within the pleura (the thin membrane that covers the lungs). The procedure involves inserting a small tube inside the chest cavity. It is then filled with a combination of saline and talc. This causes the pleural linings to adhere together, causing them to cause irritation.
Pleural mesothelioma patients who do not suffer from pleural effusions experience better quality of life than patients with this complication, which could cause pain and difficulty breathing. Doctors recommend pleurodesis and other treatment options such as thoracentesis in order to prevent the accumulation of fluid. Pleurodesis is typically performed on the right side of the body, though it is also possible to perform on the left.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease researchers examined the relationship of talc pleurodesis to more aggressive surgical options for mesothelioma, including extrapleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy with decortication (P/D). The results suggest that patients who undergo pleurodesis survive longer than those who undergo more aggressive surgery.
Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma of the pleural are often prescribed chemotherapy to help treat the cancer, but this only extends the duration of treatment by about 12 months. Pleurodesis, a less invasive procedure, can extend duration of survival and lessen the amount of pain. Pleurodesis is a procedure that can be done prior to or after mesothelioma treatment and it can be combined with other forms of treatment for cancer, such as radiation or chemotherapy.
Mesothelioma is becoming more well-known as a palliative treatment for patients with mesothelioma, especially because it can be combined alongside other cancer treatments. A mesothelioma specialist can determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
During talc pleurodesis the patient receives an oral dose of morphine and local anesthetics for pain relief. A small tube is then put into the chest cavity and a mixture of saline as well as talc is slowly added. After the talc is in place, a doctor will then remove the drain pipe and monitor for any complications. Patients will need to take prescription painkillers following the procedure to ease any discomfort. Some of the complications that can result from this procedure include low blood pressure, fever and flu-like symptoms within a one or two days after the procedure. However, these are not common. Patients should discuss the risk with a specialist for mesothelioma.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is also known as pleural effusions or a fluid accumulation around your lungs is a procedure used by doctors to remove these fluids. It can be performed in the hospital or at the office of your doctor. It is usually performed while you are awake, however some patients are asleep. In these cases you'll need someone to drive you home.
Your healthcare provider will disinfect the area where they are going to insert the needle and inject a numbing drug. Then, they'll move your body in order that they are able to access the pleural area that is typically located between your ribs. They might also employ ultrasound to locate the right area.
After inserting the needle the doctor will then use tubes to remove the fluid from the pleural space. They will then analyze the fluid in the pleural cavity to determine the reason for your fluid accumulation. You may latest treatment for mesothelioma need to undergo additional tests, such an MRI or CT scan to determine the root of the issue and how to address it.
After the pleural fluid is removed, your doctor will close the needle hole and cover it with a bandage. Normal is a little coughing after the procedure. The coughing process helps your lung expand and get rid of the extra fluid. You will have to wear the bandage for an hour. You might need to remain in the hospital for a few days, based on the cause of the buildup of fluid and the amount of fluid that is removed during the procedure.
Your doctor will perform an X-ray on your chest when you are ready to take off the bandage to make sure there were no issues during the procedure. You may need another X-ray within a few hours to ensure that all fluids have been removed.
Certain people with a blood-clotting disorder or are taking medications that decrease blood clotting may not be able to undergo thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks with you prior the procedure and will check your medical history to determine any possible reasons why it might not be safe for you. They will also do tests on your blood to confirm that you do not suffer from a condition that makes it difficult for your body clot.