What Mesothelioma Patients Should Know Prior to Having Surgery

Every year, more than 15 million Americans undergo surgery. All surgery, whether elective or for serious cancers like mesothelioma, can be made easier if you are proactive. It is essential that patients take time to understand their health problems and the treatment procedures recommended by the doctor.

Surgery for malignant mesothelioma is usually recommended by the patient's oncologist who may also refer the patient to a surgeon. There are several reasons why a doctor may prescribe surgery. Surgery can help establish a firm diagnosis of the mesothelioma, and is most often used for "debulking" - reducing the size of the cancerous mass. Surgery also reduces chest pressure and pain. Patients should communicate freely with their doctor about the recommended surgery in order to clearly understand the procedure.

Another issue that patients should consider is the type of surgery recommended by the doctor. Alternatives to surgical procedures may be available, but because the experience of having mesothelioma is so far outside normal life, it is probably best to listen to your doctor's recommendations. Patients may be able to delay surgery in order to check whether their condition improves or worsens. If the patient's condition improves, there may not be any need for surgery. Patients should talk to their doctor about these possibilities.

Costs are typically a major stress factor when evaluating healthcare issues. Patients should be well aware of the expenses related to the hospital stay and those incurred on care and treatment procedures administered by other doctors.

Every surgical procedure involves risk. Patients should review potential benefits of the procedure and compare it with associated risks. The recommended procedure may lead to complications including infection, reaction to anesthesia, or excessive bleeding. Patients are likely to experience pain after the surgery, so discuss pain management with your doctor.

Also discuss the expected time of recovery. You should understand how post-operative pain and discomfort will limit your daily routine and exercise habits. Plan for any supplies or equipment that will be required after the surgery, during the recovery phase. These questions should be discussed prior to surgery so you are prepared when you get back home.

Patients can make a huge difference in managing their health care by getting a second opinion. Doctors may differ in their overall assessment and may recommend different treatment procedures for certain ailments. Obtaining a second opinion will allow patients to have more detailed information and subsequently make the most appropriate decision regarding a surgical procedure.

Q&A on surgery.

Abstract: Radical surgery for malignant pleural mesothelioma: results and prognosis.

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