Extra Pleural Pneumonectomy

Surgical Options for Asbestos Cancer Patients

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the cancer caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, then extra pleural pneumonectomy is one possible surgical option available to you. Doctors make treatment recommendations on a variety of factors, including staging, size of the tumor, your age, and overall health. Speak with your doctor to learn more about extra pleural pneumonectomy.

What is Extra Pleural Pneumonectomy?

Extra pleural pneumonectomy or “EPP” is a surgery to remove the lung, lung covering, and the coverings of the heart, diaphragm and pericardium. There are five major steps in this surgical procedure, including:

• Making an incision to expose the parietal pleura
• Separating the parietal pleura from the fascia, diaphragm, and mediastinum
• Dividing up the pulmonary vessels, subcarinal node dissection, staple main stem bronchus
• Piecing back together the lung, lung covering, pericardium and diaphragm
• Reconstruction surgery for the diaphragm and pericardium

The most detailed and accurate explanation of the EPP procedure will come from an experienced mesothelioma physician. 

If you were recently diagnosed and you need to connect with a doctor that specializes in asbestos cancer, contact Worthington & Caron, PC. We are proud to be able to offer our clients connections to the nation’s foremost meso physicians!