Surgery & The O.R.

We believe in multimodality treatment for mesothelioma. This means we use a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation as the foundation of our treatment approach. Depending on the results of diagnostic and staging information, many IMP patients receive multimodality treatment.

There are two basic types of mesothelioma surgery. The decision as to which operation is most appropriate is determined for each patient by the IMP team.

Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP)

This surgery involves removal of the affected lung and also the pleura (the sac or membrane that covers the lung and lines the chest cavity), portions of the pericardium (the sac that surrounds the heart), and the diaphragm.

Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D)

This surgery involves removal of the pleura (lining of the chest).

In both cases, the goal of surgery is to remove all visible tumor. This is a prime contributor to extension of life for mesothelioma patients.

After removing all visible tumor, the surgeons use a variety of techniques, including hydrogen peroxide dissolution of the tumor cells, argon laser treatment of the surgical area, and an intraoperative heated chemotherapy wash to kill residual tumor cells.

These are major surgeries and can have a number of complications. The IMP clinical care team is experienced in managing surgical patients before, during, and after surgery.