Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D) Methods and Mesothelioma Survival Rates

A new report published in the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery studied the cases of 314 pleural mesothelioma patients from 2011 to 2014 who had P/D surgery to remove the pleural membrane from their diseased lung. The study concludes that not all P/D methods are created equal. Of the three P/D methods, the researchers concluded that only two had positive impacts on survival rates.

The three P/D surgical protocols examined were Extended P/D, P/D, and Partial P/D.

  • Extended (radical) P/D: (162 patient cases) Includes removal of the membrane around the lungs, heart, diaphragm, as well as other tissues
  • P/D: (115 patient cases) The standard mesothelioma surgical procedure which just leaving more tissue untouched than the extended P/D.
  • Partial P/D: (37 patient cases) Only attempts to remove the pleura but does not seek to remove all of the tumor tissue.

Marulli, the author of the study concluded that, “Whether the P/D is extended or not, it shows similarly good outcomes in terms of early results and survival rate. In contrast, a partial pleurectomy, which leaves gross tumour behind, has no impact on survival.”

The Paul Law Firm advocates for victims of asbestos-related diseases. If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma, call the Paul Law Firm. With over 2.5 billion dollars collected for victims of asbestos exposure, we have the knowledge and the experience to fight for you. We also understand that fighting doesn’t just happen in the courtroom. It also happens in a lab where we are fighting for a cure. Check out the Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America here.

Call us today at 1-855 88 LEGAL (885-3425) or contact us online to discuss your case with one of our experienced mesothelioma lawyers

Categories