Mesothelioma Attorney
Diagnosing Mesothelioma
The procedure of using fluid to diagnose mesothelioma is often time inconclusive. It is often require that a patient suspected of suffering from mesothelioma undergo a diagnostic surgery as the next step in confirming and staging the cancer.
Thoracoscopy
Thorascopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to evaluate the pleural cavity and conduct multiple tissue biopsies under direct vision. A definitive diagnosis can be obtained through this manner in up to 98 percent of cases. It is less invasive than an open biopsy; however, it can only be performed on patients where a tumor has not completely destroyed the pleural space.
VATS
Video-assisted thoracic surgery, VATS, is a more invasive alternative to thoracoscopy. The doctor uses small incisions to view the pleural space with the assistance of a camera and obtain sufficient tissue sample for analysis by a pathologist. The extent of the tumor can also be determined and recommendations to the type of debulking procedure necessary can be made at this time.
Mediastinoscopy
This procedure is sometimes used as an aid in staging the extent of the disease when enlarged nodes are seen using imaging techniques.
Laproscopy
When imaging techniques suggest the possible invasion of the tumor through the diaphragm laproscopy is used. Laproscopy can be important in evaluating a patient for potential pleurectomy or extrapleural pneumonectomy.
Contact a Mesothelioma Lawyer
Living with mesothelioma can be difficult for your family and your finances. If you or someone you love is suffering from mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, contact the mesothelioma attorney of Williams Kherkher at 800.781.3955 today.
