A pneumonectomy is the removal of a lung in order to eradicate a tumor or tumors that may be associated with mesothelioma and other lung diseases. The human species does not need both lungs to survive, but the removal of a lung is a serious procedure and is only performed if cancer doctors believe it will offer the best chance for survival or will greatly reduce the debilitating symptoms of mesothelioma.
Not every mesothelioma patient is a candidate for a pneumonectomy. Doctors will not recommend this procedure for cases where the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. Surgical candidates must also be in relatively good health for this procedure to be considered. Heart function must be strong and the other lung must be in good working condition as well.
Not every mesothelioma patient is a candidate for a pneumonectomy. Doctors will not recommend this procedure for cases where the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. Surgical candidates must also be in relatively good health for this procedure to be considered. Heart function must be strong and the other lung must be in good working condition as well.
