Clinical trials are imperative in the search for mesothelioma cures. As results and information are gathered from a study, the knowledge gained helps medical professionals come closer to the discovery of a cure. Each successful clinical trial renews mesothelioma hope for all patients around the world.
Dr. David Sugarbaker, M.D. has taken an active role in the pursuit of better treatment options for mesothelioma patients and a cure for the asbestos-related cancer. Dr. Sugarbaker has been instrumental in the discovery of groundbreaking treatment options and his multi-modal approach to treating the disease has increased survival rates for mesothelioma patients. Dr. Sugarbaker is best known for his innovative treatment approach which involves surgery coupled with radiation and chemotherapy treatments for patients both before and after surgery.
Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), a ground-breaking surgical procedure performed by Dr. Sugarbaker, involves the removal of the lung and its coverings and the coverings of the heart and diaphragm. This surgery has resulted in disease-free and long-term survival and yielded the greatest amount of cytoreduction, or decrease in the number of cancerous cells.
Another procedure performed by Dr. Sugarbaker is intracavitary chemotherapy. Though currently under evaluation, the procedure has demonstrated encouraging results for mesothelioma patients. Intracavitary chemotherapy is completed while the patient is in surgery. Surgery to remove the tumor is completed and the chemotherapy is administered into the chest and abdominal cavity, contacting surfaces containing tumor cells and killing them. Healthy cells are preserved as a cytoprotective agent is utilized throughout the procedure.
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