Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
Studies have found asbestos fibers in some cosmetic talcum powders. The talc particles that are contaminated typically contain anthophyllite, tremolite or Chrysotile asbestos.
Nursing experts recommend talc pleurodesis surgery for pleural patients with mesothelioma. This is because it improves mesothelioma survivability rates and eases symptoms by removing excessive fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
The minimally invasive procedure of Pleurodesis can help deal with the primary problem with pleural Mesothelioma that is the accumulation of fluid within the pleura (the thin membrane that surrounds the lungs). The procedure involves inserting a small tube into the chest cavity. The tube is filled with a mixture of talc salinity and other substances. This causes the pleural linings to become adsorbent, causing them to cause irritation.
Patients with pleural mesothelioma that do not suffer from pleural effusions have a better quality of life. This problem can cause pain or breathing difficulties. Due to this, doctors recommend preventing fluid buildup through pleurodesis, or other options for treatment like thoracentesis. Pleurodesis is most often performed on the right side of the body, though it is also possible to perform on the left.
In a recent study that was published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease researchers compared pleurodesis with talc against more aggressive surgical options for mesothelioma including extrapleural pneumonectomy as well as pleurectomy with decortication (P/D). The results show that patients who have pleurodesis are healthier than those who undergo more invasive surgeries.
Chemotherapy is usually prescribed to patients with asbestosis pleural, but it does not increase survival by 12 months. Pleurodesis is a less invasive procedure that can add time to the duration of survival and lessen pain and discomfort. Pleurodesis is a less invasive procedure that can improve the chance of survival and decrease the pain.
Because of this, mesothelioma is now being recognized as an effective palliative treatment for patients with mesothelioma, especially when it is used in conjunction with other types of cancer therapies. A mesothelioma doctor can decide pleural mesothelioma treatment options which treatment is best for each patient.
In talc pleurodesis, a patient is given an oral dose of morphine and local anesthetics for pain control. A small tube is placed into the chest cavity, and a mixture containing saline, talc and other ingredients is slowly added. Once the talc is in place, a physician will remove the drain tap and continue monitoring for complications. After the procedure patients will be required to take medications prescribed by their doctor to ease any discomfort. A low blood pressure, fever and flu-like symptoms could occur within the first few days following the procedure. These are uncommon. Patients should discuss the risks with a specialist for mesothelioma.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis often referred to as pleural effusions, or fluid accumulation around your lungs is a procedure utilized by doctors to remove these fluids. It can be done in the hospital or doctor's office. It is usually done while you are awake. However, some people might be sedated. In these cases you'll need someone to drive home afterward.
Your doctor will sterilize the area in which they are going insert the needle and then inject an analgesic medicine. Then, they'll move your body so they can access the pleural space, which is usually between your ribs. They can also use ultrasound to pinpoint the proper spot.
After inserting the needle the doctor will use tubes to remove the fluid from the pleural space. The pleural fluid will be assessed to determine what's causing the fluid buildup. You may require additional tests, such an MRI or CT scan, to find out the root of the issue and the best way to treat it.
Once the pleural fluid has been removed the doctor will then close the needle hole and cover it with a bandage. You might cough a little afterward however this is normal. Coughing can help increase the size of your lungs and remove the excess fluid. You will probably have to keep the bandage in place for around an hour. You may need to remain in the hospital for a number of days, depending on the reason behind the buildup of fluid and the amount of fluid that is removed during the procedure.
If you are ready to have the bandage removed the doctor will take an X-ray of your chest to ensure that no problems occurred during the procedure. It is possible that you will need another X-ray later, to ensure that all fluid is gone.
Some people with blood clotting issues or who take medication to reduce clotting may not be able have a Thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks with you prior to the procedure and will check your medical history to see if there are any reasons why it might not be suitable for you. They will also conduct an examination of your blood to make sure that you don't have a medical condition that makes it difficult for your body make clots.