Surgery
Surgery is widely considered the most effective treatment program for those diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. However, it is not available for every patient due to the circumstances of each individual's case. Perhaps the most common factor that limits those eligible for surgery is the stage of the person's disease. The best case scenario for those diagnosed with mesothelioma is that it is found in a very early stage. However, this is not usually the case because early stage mesothelioma is not typically associated with any side effects that would warrant an examination and discovery of the disease. So, while surgery is an option limited to those whose disease is in an early stage, it can be very effective treatment for those who are eligible.
The way surgery works is what makes it so effective. Under no other treatment plans does the doctor have primary contact with the affected area. With surgery, the physician has the ability to physically remove the cancer from the affected area. Ideally, following the surgical resection the patient will be essentially cancer free, though not immune to the recurrence of the cancer. It is because of this period that surgery offers the longest prognoses of any treatment regimen.
Aside from resection, there are also other surgical procedures performed for patients of malignant mesothelioma. Smaller and less intensive procedures are actually more common and intended for palliative purposes. Small surgeries will often attempt to lessen a fluid buildup in the affected area, relieving pressure and making the patient more comfortable.
Patients should know what to expect when going into a surgical procedure. Undoubtedly, your physician will tell you exactly what do in terms of diet and physical activity leading up to a procedure. Ask specific questions if you feel the need. Once in operating room, you will no doubt be a little nervous. Physicians will make you as comfortable as possible and almost always use some degree of anesthetic. Either localized or throughout your body, the anesthetic will make you feel little or no pain as the procedure is done and more likely you will be subdued throughout the procedure.
