Talc Treatment for MesotheliomaStudies have identified asbestos fibers in some cosmetic talcum powder products. The talc powders that are contaminated typically contain tremolite asbestos anthophyllite asbestos, or the chrysotile.The experts in nursing recommend talc-based pleurodesis surgery for patients with mesothelioma. This is because it could improve mesothelioma survival rates and ease symptoms by removing fluids from the chest cavity.PleurodesisPleurodesis is a minimally-invasive procedure to treat the primary symptom of pleural mesothelioma: fluid buildup in the pleura. It is the thin membrane that surrounds the lung. The procedure involves inserting a small tube in the chest cavity. The tube is filled with a mixture of talc, the saline, and other substances. The pleural linings begin to become adsorbent, causing them to irritate.Patients with mesothelioma who don't have pleural effusions enjoy better quality of life than those with this condition, which can cause pain and trouble breathing. Because of this, doctors advise against the buildup of fluid through pleurodesis, or other treatment options like thoracentesis. Pleurodesis is most often performed on the right side of the body, though it can also be performed on the left.In a recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease, researchers compared pleurodesis with talc against more invasive surgical options for mesothelioma such as extrapleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy with decortication (P/D). The results indicate that patients with pleurodesis are healthier than those who undergo more invasive surgeries.Chemotherapy is often recommended to patients suffering from asbestosis pleural, but it does not increase survival by 12 months. Pleurodesis is a less invasive procedure that can add more time to the duration of survival and lessen pain and discomfort. Pleurodesis can be performed prior to or after mesothelioma treatment and can also be combined with other forms of treatment for cancer, such as radiation or chemotherapy.For this reason, mesothelioma is now being recognized as a highly effective treatment for mesothelioma patients particularly as it may be utilized in conjunction with other types of cancer therapies. A mesothelioma specialist can determine the best treatment for each patient.During talc pleurodesis the patients are given oral morphine as well as a local anesthetic to ease pain. A small tube is then inserted into the chest cavity, and a mixture of saline and talc are slowly added. A doctor will remove drain taps after the talc is placed and will continue to watch for any signs of complications. After the surgery patients must take painkillers prescribed by their doctor to manage any discomfort. Fever, low blood pressure, and flu-like symptoms can occur within the first few days following the procedure. However, these are not common. Patients should discuss the potential risks with a specialist in mesothelioma.ThoracentesisThoracentesis often referred to as pleural effusions or fluid accumulation around your lungs is a method used by doctors to drain these fluids. It can be performed in a hospital or a in a doctor's office. It usually takes place while you are awake. However, some people may be sedated. In these instances, you'll need someone to drive home afterward.Your healthcare provider will sterilize the area in which they'll insert the needle, and then inject a numbing medication. Then, they'll move your body so that they can access the pleural space which is typically between your ribs. They may employ ultrasound to pinpoint the proper area.After inserting the needle, the doctor will use a tube to remove the fluid from the pleural space. They will then test the fluid in the pleural cavity to determine the reason for your fluid buildup. You may need more tests like an MRI or CT to determine the cause of your fluid buildup and the best way to treat it.After the pleural fluid is removed The doctor will then close the needle hole and cover it with an elastic bandage. There is a slight chance of coughing following the procedure. The coughing process helps your lung expand and rid it of the excess fluid. You'll likely need to keep the bandage in place for around an hour. You might need to stay in the hospital for several days, based on the reason for your fluid buildup and the amount of fluid removed during thoracentesis.Your doctor will conduct an X-ray scan of your chest when you are ready to take off the bandage to ensure that there was no issue during the procedure. You may need another X-ray within a couple of hours to make sure that all fluid has been removed.Some people with blood clotting issues or who take medication to reduce clotting might not be able to undergo Thoracentesis. Your doctor will discuss the risks with you before the procedure and will also check your medical history to determine whether there are any indications that it isn't safe for you. They'll also perform an examination of your blood to make sure that you do not have a medical condition that makes it difficult for your body to to clot.