Talc Treatment for Mesothelioma
Studies have found asbestos fibers in some cosmetic talcum powder products. The talc particles that are contaminated typically contain tremolite, anthophyllite 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 survivorship rates and relieves symptoms by removing excessive fluid from the chest cavity.
Pleurodesis
The minimally invasive procedure of Pleurodesis can help manage the primary symptoms of pleural mesothelioma which is the accumulation of fluid within the pleura (the thin membrane that surrounds lungs). The procedure involves inserting a small tube in the chest cavity. The tube is filled with a mixture of talc salinity and other substances. This irritates the pleural linings and causes them to adhere to one another, closing off the space that allows fluid to accumulate.
Pleural mesothelioma patients who do not have pleural effusions have better quality of life than patients with this complication, which could lead to pain and difficulty breathing. This is why doctors advise against the buildup of fluid by pleurodesis or other treatment options like thoracentesis. Pleurodesis is typically performed on the right side of the body, though it can also be done on the left side.
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, such as extrapleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy with decortication (P/D). The results show that patients who undergo pleurodesis survive longer than those who receive more aggressive surgery.
Chemotherapy is often recommended for patients suffering from asbestosis pleural, but it only prolongs survival on average by 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 can also be combined with other forms of treatment for cancer like chemotherapy or radiation.
Mesothelioma Talc is getting more popular as a palliative therapy for patients with mesothelioma, especially because it can be combined with other cancer therapies. A mesothelioma expert can determine the most suitable treatment for each patient.
In talc pleurodesis, a patient is given morphine orally and a local anesthetic for pain control. A small tube is then inserted into the chest cavity and a mixture of saline and talc are slowly added. A doctor will take out the drain taps once the talc has been placed and continue to check for any complications. After the procedure patients must take painkillers prescribed by their doctor to ease any discomfort. A few complications of this procedure include low blood pressure, fever, and flu-like symptoms that can be felt for a day or two following the procedure. However, these are uncommon. Patients should discuss the potential risks with a mesothelioma expert.
Thoracentesis
Thoracentesis is the procedure that doctors use to drain the pleural effusions or fluid accumulation around one or both of your lungs. It can be performed in a hospital or a doctor's office. It is usually performed while you're awake, however some patients are asleep. In these cases, you'll need someone to drive you home.
Your doctor will sterilize the area where they will insert the needle and then inject an analgesic medication. Then, they'll move your body so they can reach the pleural space which is typically between your ribs. They might also employ ultrasound to locate the right area.
After inserting the needle the doctor will use tubes to remove the fluid from the pleural space. The pleural fluid will be tested to determine what is the cause of the buildup of fluid. It is possible that you will require additional tests, such as an MRI or CT to determine the cause of the fluid buildup and how to treat.
After the pleural liquid is removed, the doctor will close the needle and then cover it with bandage. It is normal to experience a small amount of coughing after the procedure. Coughing helps increase the size of your lungs and remove the extra fluid. You will probably have to keep the bandage in place for about an hour. You might have to stay in the hospital for a few weeks, dependent on the cause of the fluid buildup and how much of it was removed during the thoracentesis.
The doctor will take an X-ray on your chest when you are ready to take off the bandage in order to make sure that there were no complications during the procedure. It is possible that you will need another X-ray later, just to ensure that all the fluid is gone.
Some people with mesothelioma treatment alternative treatment blood-clotting disorders or who take medications that reduce clotting may not be able to undergo thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks of the procedure with you and check your medical records to determine if the procedure is suitable for you. They will also perform tests on your blood to make sure that you do not have a condition that makes it difficult for your body to make clots.