A recent study has concentrated on the pros and cons of radical surgery for those unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with asbestos related mesothelioma.
A group of Italian experts, writing in the European Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery has advised that pre-existing conditions including an infection known as pleural sepsis, may place the greatest adverse affect on mesothelioma survival rates after radical surgery in the form of extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP).
Over the years, there has been a difference of opinion between cancer experts on which of the two main types of mesothelioma surgery, results in most benefits to sufferers.
EPP is considered to be the most radical form of mesothelioma surgery. This involves complete removal of the thin, protective sheath around the lung, known as the pleura, the diaphragm, one complete lung and further tissues affected by the incurable asbestos related cancer. In contrast pleurectomy with decortifcation (PD) involves the removal of the pleura and other affected tissues but does not encompass the removal of a lung.
Whilst there have been many examples of those who underwent EPP, surviving for long periods, this more radical form of surgery is often accompanied by much greater risks of complications and ultimately death, when compared to PD.
The new Italian study confirms that one of the most common problems encountered by EPP patients is a serious infection known as pleural sepsis. 91 patients who underwent EPP were reviewed as part of the study between 2000 and 2015 and alarmingly, those who had undergone the treatment were found to have faced an increase of developing pleural sepsis, 6 times higher than those who had refrained from undergoing the invasive operation, undergoing PD instead. The study also found that the condition would regularly return a year and half after the mesothelioma surgery had been completed.
Comorbidities were also found to have negatively affected mesothelioma survival rates and whilst those who underwent PD were found to have less severe comorbidities and underlying health problems, the presence of major complications post surgery was seen as being pretty much the same between the two groups of mesothelioma patients studied.
Clearly, when assessing which form of surgery, if any to undergo, mesothelioma sufferers and their families need to take stock of any pre-existing complaints.
Lead author of the study, Maurizio Infante, Chief of Thoracic Surgery at the Borgo Trento University in Verona writes:-
“The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) is an independent predictor of survival in malignant pleural mesothelioma patients undergoing radical surgery…..Owing to its significant frequency and adverse impact, pleural sepsis may contribute to a reduced life expectancy after EPP.”
Unfortunately, the study leaves the debate over which type of surgery is best for mesothelioma patients, very much open.
At Asbestos Justice, we will continue to monitor any updated developments highlighted by studies which concentrate on the results of various forms of mesothelioma surgery and will keep you updated.
If you require assistance in pursuing a mesothelioma claim or believe you have a valid asbestos claim for any other asbestos related disease, then please contact us today on our freephone number 0800 038 6767. Alternatively, head over to the ‘Contact Us’ page, complete the form and we will be in touch.
Source :- Infante, M, Comorbidity, postoperative morbidity and survival in patients undergoing radical surgery for malignant pleural mesothelioma, 21st June 2016, European Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Epub ahead of print.