EPP (Extrapleural Pneumonectomy) is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the affected lung along with the lining of the chest cavity, the diaphragm, and the lining of the sac surrounding the heart. This surgery is typically performed on patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, and is often caused by exposure to asbestos.
The prognosis for mesothelioma patients is generally poor, with a median survival time of 12 to 21 months. EPP surgery is one of the treatment options available for patients with mesothelioma, but it is a complex and risky procedure that is not suitable for all patients. The surgery carries a high risk of complications, including bleeding, infection, and respiratory failure. In addition, the long-term survival benefits of EPP surgery are still a matter of debate among experts in the field.
Recurrence after EPP surgery is a major concern for patients and their families. The chances of recurrence depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the extent of the surgery, and the patient’s overall health. Studies have shown that the overall recurrence rate after EPP surgery is between 50% and 70%. However, the recurrence rate varies depending on the stage of the cancer and other factors.
In early-stage mesothelioma, EPP surgery can be curative, meaning that it can completely remove the cancer and prevent recurrence. However, in advanced-stage mesothelioma, EPP surgery is usually performed as a palliative measure, meaning that it is used to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life, rather than to cure the cancer. In these cases, the chances of recurrence are higher, as the cancer is more likely to have spread to other parts of the body.
The extent of the surgery also plays a role in the chances of recurrence. In some cases, surgeons may perform a partial pleurectomy instead of a full EPP, leaving some of the lung tissue intact. Studies have shown that patients who undergo partial pleurectomy have a lower risk of recurrence than those who undergo EPP surgery.
Other factors that can affect the chances of recurrence include the patient’s age, overall health, and response to other treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Patients who are younger and in better overall health are more likely to tolerate the surgery and have a lower risk of recurrence. Patients who respond well to chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also have a lower risk of recurrence.
In conclusion, recurrence after EPP surgery is a major concern for patients with mesothelioma. The overall recurrence rate after EPP surgery is between 50% and 70%, but the chances of recurrence depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the extent of the surgery, and the patient’s overall health. Patients with early-stage mesothelioma who undergo EPP surgery may have a lower risk of recurrence than those with advanced-stage mesothelioma. Patients who undergo partial pleurectomy instead of EPP surgery may also have a lower risk of recurrence. Ultimately, the decision to undergo EPP surgery should be made in consultation with a medical professional who can provide guidance based on the patient’s individual circumstances.
