Decortication
Decortication is the process of removing the outer surface of an organ. The most common application of the procedure involves the removal of the outer membrane covering the lung, especially in individuals with
lung cancer. This outer lining of the lung is called the parietal
pleura, and the decortication process in this case is known as a
pleurectomy.
Decortication is performed when a complete removal of a tumor is impossible. It is usually a palliative procedure, meaning it simply relieves the symptoms and is not considered a potential cure. For patients with mesothelioma, typically, the purpose of the procedure is to control fluid that tends to build up around diseased lungs, which will help to decrease painful pressure and improve the patient's ability to breathe comfortably.
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The decortication process requires general anesthesia, meaning that the patient is unconscious throughout the procedure. Depending on the condition of the patient, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be administered while the cancer is exposed during surgery. The procedure requires that the patient stay in the hospital for several days afterward for observation and recovery.