There are several treatment options for mesothelioma, and surgery is one of the most common options. Surgery is often performed to slow down cancer growth or relieve the pain and symptoms mesothelioma causes. While some people experience only a few side effects, quite a number of people experience significant problems after undergoing mesothelioma surgery. Depending on the type of surgery, recovering from mesothelioma surgery can be challenging. Fortunately, it is possible to improve the recovery process.

Mesothelioma Surgery Options

Firstly, it is crucial to keep in mind that not every mesothelioma patient is a candidate for surgery. Whether or not a patient qualifies for mesothelioma surgery depends on, among other things, the stage of cancer and cell type. Usually, a medical professional will recommend surgery if a patient is eligible.

There are different surgery options available for eligible mesothelioma patients. Below are some of these options;

• Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP) – This is a surgery carried out on people with pleural mesothelioma with the aim of controlling tumor growth. It is an aggressive procedure that involves one lung getting removed. EPP involves the surrounding tissues of a lung and parts or all of the diaphragm being removed. Therefore, a person needs to be in good overall health to be eligible for EPP. And the cancer needs to be in the early stages for a patient to be eligible for EPP. Usually, the recovery process for EPP involves a lengthy hospital stay.
• Pleurectomy with Decortication (P/D) – This procedure aims to relieve mesothelioma symptoms and prolong a patient's life. P/D involves the removal of cancerous tissues from the chest cavity and lung's pleural lining. Usually, recovery is quicker after a person goes through this procedure.
• Cytoreduction and Debulking Surgery – This is a surgery option for people with peritoneal mesothelioma. Doctors perform this surgery to remove as many observable tumors as possible from the abdominal area. Cytoreduction and debulking might be a good option for those whose cancer has spread to other abdominal organs.

After cytoreductive surgery, a surgeon may administer HIPEC treatment. This treatment is meant to kill the remaining cancer cells and help avert a reappearance. The recovery process for Cytoreduction with HIPEC encompasses an individual remaining in hospital for ten to fourteen days and then recovering from home for two to three weeks.

How to Improve Recovery After Undergoing Mesothelioma Surgery

The following are some ways to improve recovery after undergoing mesothelioma surgery;

• Having a home health nurse
• Eating and drinking properly
• Getting enough rest
• Following the doctor's orders
• Taking good care of the wound
• Ensuring proper pain management
• Being cautious when sneezing or coughing
• Avoiding doing a lot too soon
• Being active

It is crucial to note that the recovery process after a mesothelioma surgery is dependent on several factors, most of which a patient cannot control. However, a mesothelioma patient can positively impact some factors that affect the recovery process by making certain lifestyle changes.

Arizona Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced Arizona mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.