What is pleurectomy and decortication?

Pleurectomy and Decortication

What is pleurectomy and decortication?

Pleurectomy and decortication (P/D) is surgery to remove tumors and ease mesothelioma symptoms, like shortness of breath and chest pain. The surgeon peels back the layers around the lung (pleura) to reach the tumor layer. Then the tumor layer and the tumors are removed. Sometimes surgery to shorten the diaphragm is also done.

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