Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
Studies have found asbestos fibers within a few cosmetic talcum powders. These contaminated talc particles typically contain anthophyllite, tremolite or chrysotile asbestos.
Experts in nursing recommend talc pleurodesis surgery as an alternative to more extensive surgeries for pleural mesothelioma patients. This is because it improves mesothelioma survival rates and eases symptoms by removing excess fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
The minimally invasive procedure of Pleurodesis can help deal with the primary symptoms of pleural mesothelioma that is the accumulation of fluid within the pleura (the thin membrane that covers the lungs). The procedure involves inserting a small tube in the chest cavity. This tube is then filled with a mixture of talc, saline and other substances. The pleural linings begin to stick together, which causes irritation to.
Patients with pleural mesothelioma that do not experience the presence of pleural effusions have a higher quality of life. This condition can cause pain and breathing problems. Doctors recommend pleurodesis along with other treatment options such as thoracentesis in order to prevent the accumulation of fluid. Pleurodesis can be performed on either side of the body.
In a recent study that was published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease, researchers compared pleurodesis using talc to more aggressive surgical options for mesothelioma, including extrapleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy with decortication (P/D). The results show that patients who undergo pleurodesis last longer than those who receive more intensive surgery.
Patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma pleural are usually given chemotherapy to fight the cancer but this only extends survival by an average of 12 months. Pleurodesis is 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 can also be combined with other forms of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.
Mesothelioma Talc is getting more well-known as a treatment for palliative care for mesothelioma patients, particularly because it can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments. A mesothelioma expert can determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
During talc pleurodesis patients receive oral morphine and a local anesthetic for pain control. A small tube is inserted into the chest cavity, and an aqueous mixture comprising saline talc and other ingredients is slowly added. A doctor will remove drain taps once the talc has been placed and will continue to watch for any signs of complications. Patients are required to take painkillers prescribed by a doctor following the procedure to alleviate any discomfort. A low blood pressure, fever and flu-like symptoms could occur in the days following the procedure. These are rare. Patients should discuss the potential risks with a specialist for mesothelioma.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is the procedure doctors employ to clear lymphatic effusions, or the fluid accumulation around one or both of your lung tissue. It can be performed in a hospital or a in a doctor’s office. It usually takes place while you are awake. However, some people might be sedated. In those cases you’ll need someone to take you home afterward.
Your doctor will sterilize the area where they are going to insert the needle and then inject a numbing drug. They will then move your body in order to access the pleural cavity, which is typically between your ribs. stage 3 mesothelioma treatment might utilize ultrasound to determine the proper location.
After inserting the needle the doctor will then use a tube to remove the fluid from the pleural space. The pleural fluid will then be examined to determine what is creating the fluid buildup. It is possible that you will need to undergo more tests, like an MRI or CT scan to determine what is causing the problem and how to address it.
After the pleural liquid is removed, the doctor will close the needle and cover the wound with a bandage. You may experience a slight cough after this however, this is normal. The coughing process helps increase the size of your lungs and remove the extra fluid. You will probably have to keep the bandage on for around an hour. You might need to stay in the hospital for a few days depending on what caused the fluid buildup and how much of it was removed during the thoracentesis.
If you are ready to remove the bandage and your doctor will perform an X-ray to ensure that no problems occurred during the procedure. You might need to undergo another X-ray later, just to ensure that all the fluid has gone.
Some people who have an issue with blood clotting or who take medications that reduce blood clotting might not be able to undergo the thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks of the procedure with you and review your medical records to determine if it is safe for you. They will also perform a blood test to make sure that you do not suffer from a condition that makes it difficult for your body to clot.
