Thoracoscopy - Surgery Options for Mesothelioma
Thoracoscopy refers to a medical procedure in which doctors introduce a very long, thin tube into the body between two ribs. This tube has mirrors or a very small camera attached to it so that, with just a tiny incision and no invasive surgery, doctors can see the internal organs and can easily collect cells for diagnostic purposes.
In most cases, thoracoscopy is performed under general anesthesia. However, some hospitals and doctors are beginning to use local anesthesia to perform this technique. In most mesothelioma cases, thoracoscopy is used to examine the lungs. This specific type of thoracoscopy is called pleuroscopy, named for the pleura, which is the lining of the lungs.
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During this surgical procedure, the lung in question will be deflated to create enough space for the tiny camera to investigate, and patients will be hooked to a ventilator in order to help them breathe more easily. A surgical staff will monitor inhalation and exhalation to ensure that there are no major problems.
The doctor begins by making a small incision in the chest between the ribs so that the tube can be inserted. The surgeon may take an x-ray before starting in order to help him guide the camera and tube through the body and so that the procedure can be completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
After the doctor makes an incision in the chest, the tube is carefully inserted. The camera or mirrors help the doctor explore the area. Samples of suspicious cells will be removed. This will help pathologists correctly confirm whether the cells are, in fact, cancerous.
After the procedure is complete, stitches or staples are used to close the incisions. A drainage tube is placed in the chest in order for fluids to drain. This tube also helps release any excess air building in the chest cavity. The lungs are slowly and carefully brought back to full function, and the patient is removed from the respirator. The doctor may order more x-rays if he deems them necessary.
A few risks are associated with thoracoscopy. First, one of your lungs will need to be slightly or fully deflated to allow the camera to explore the area. If you have poor lung function, thoracoscopy can be dangerous, as your intake of oxygen may be compromised. In addition, this can be a dangerous procedure for those with problems like blood clots and heart disease.
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