Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
Studies have found asbestos fibers in some cosmetic talcum powder products. The talc powders that are contaminated typically contain tremolite asbestos anthophyllite asbestos, or chrysotile.
The experts in nursing recommend talc-based pleurodesis for pleural patients with mesothelioma. This is because it could improve mesothelioma survival rates and alleviate symptoms by removing excess fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
Pleurodesis is an minimally invasive surgery to help manage a primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma, which is fluid buildup in the pleura, the thin membrane that covers the lung. 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 adhere together, causing irritation to.
Patients suffering from pleural mesothelioma who do not suffer from pleural effusions have a better quality of life. This problem can cause pain or breathing difficulties. Doctors recommend pleurodesis and other options for treatment, such as thoracentesis in order to prevent the accumulation of fluid. Pleurodesis is a procedure that can be performed on either side of the body.
In a study recently published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease, researchers compared pleurodesis with talc against more aggressive surgical options for mesothelioma, such as extrapleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy with decortication (P/D). The results indicate that patients with pleurodesis are healthier than those who undergo more invasive surgery.
Patients with a diagnosis of mesothelioma of the pleural are often given chemotherapy to treat the cancer, but this only extends survival by an average of 12 months. Pleurodesis, a less-invasive procedure, can extend duration of survival and lessen the amount of pain. Pleurodesis is an less invasive procedure that can increase the chance of survival and reduce the pain.
Mesothelioma is becoming more popular as a palliative therapy for mesothelioma patients, particularly because it can be combined alongside other cancer treatments. A mesothelioma specialist can determine the best treatment for each patient.
During talc pleurodesis, patients are given oral morphine as well as a local anesthetic to control pain. A small tube is inserted into the chest cavity. Then, the mixture of saline, some other ingredients, and talc is slowly added. A doctor will remove drain taps once the talc has been inserted and continue to check for any complications. Patients are required to take prescription painkillers after the procedure to alleviate any discomfort. A few complications of this procedure include low blood pressure, fever and flu-like symptoms in the day or two following the procedure. These are uncommon. Patients should discuss these dangers with a mesothelioma doctor.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis, also known as pleural effusions or a fluid accumulation around your lungs is a procedure utilized by doctors to remove these fluids. It can be done in a hospital or a in a doctor's office. The procedure is typically done while you're awake, however some patients are asleep. In those instances you'll require someone to drive you home afterward.
Your doctor will sterilize the area where they will inject the needle, and then inject an analgesic drug. They will then move your body to reach the pleural cavity, which is typically between your ribs. They can also use ultrasound to locate the correct spot.
After inserting stage 3 mesothelioma treatment the needle, the doctor will then use a tube to remove the fluid from the pleural space. They will then test the pleural fluid to find out what is causing the fluid buildup. You may require further tests, such as an MRI or CT to determine the source of the fluid buildup and what treatment options are available.
After the pleural liquid is removed, the doctor will close the needle and then cover it with a bandage. You may experience a slight cough after this, but this is normal. Coughing can help increase the size of your lungs and remove the excess fluid. You will have to wear the bandage for about an hour. You might need to stay at the hospital for a few days, based on the reason behind your fluid buildup as well as the amount of fluid that is removed during the procedure.
If you are ready to have the bandage removed and your doctor will perform an X-ray of your chest in order to ensure that there are no complications occurred during the procedure. You may need to have another X-ray later, to make sure that all the fluid has gone.
Certain people who suffer from blood-clotting disorders or who are taking medications to reduce clotting may not be able to undergo Thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks with you before the procedure and will review your medical history to see any possible reasons why it might not be suitable for you. They'll also perform tests on your blood to confirm that you do not have a condition which makes it difficult for your body to make clots.