What Is Pleurectomy/Decortication?
Pleurectomy with decortication, also known as P/D, is a surgical option for pleural mesothelioma. The procedure was developed in the 1990s by world-renowned mesothelioma specialist, Dr. Robert Cameron.
Visit the UCLA Health website to learn more about Dr. Robert Cameron.
The Mesothelioma Cancer Network has no affiliation with and is not endorsed or sponsored by Dr. Robert B. Cameron. The contact information above is listed for informational purposes only. You have the right to contact Dr. Cameron directly.
P/D is used to treat early-stage (stage 1 and 2) pleural mesothelioma by removing as much of the tumor as possible from the pleural lining of the lungs and the surrounding chest cavity. Removing cancerous tissues in these areas reduces the continued spread of mesothelioma to nearby healthy tissues and organs.
Pleurectomy/Decortication Versus Extrapleural Pneumonectomy
Unlike EPP, a more radical thoracic surgery for mesothelioma, P/D is a two-part “lung-sparing” surgery.
Pleurectomy/decortication is considered safer and less aggressive compared to EPP because it generally only removes the diseased tissue surrounding the lungs and leaves the affected lung (the lung where the mesothelioma tumor originates) intact.
An average of 90% of P/D patients experience reduced mesothelioma symptoms, but postoperative mortality (the amount of people who die shortly after surgery) is still relatively high.
The median overall life expectancy after surgery for patients who undergo P/D is around 20 months.
Quick Facts About Pleurectomy with Decortication
- Patients diagnosed at an early stage of pleural mesothelioma respond better to surgery.
- Pleurectomy/decortication is a two-part surgery used to treat or manage pleural mesothelioma.
- Approximately 2 percent of patients die during or immediately following pleurectomy and decortication surgery.
- The probability of mesothelioma recurrence in the treated area following pleurectomy and decortication surgery is 65%.