OC that has spread to the pleura

[Superkim]

So a recent ct scan shows that there are tumors on the pleura around my lungs. I have MPE (Malignant Pleura Effusions) and have for some time now. I am scheduled to start Alimta, but before I do, I'm exhausting surgical options as chemo doesn't work on me so well these days.

I had a consult this morning with a thoracic surgeon who said they won't remove metastatic ovarian cancer from the thoracic cavity (they'll only do the surgery if they think they can cure the patient and since my disease has spread....). I'm getting a second opinion at Duke next week. I'm open to a risky surgery if it will give me a few more years.

Is anyone at all familiar with "decortication" surgery or any surgical procedure for OC once it's spread to the lung area?

Thanks,

Kim

[Lyndy]

Not really but as a fellow MPE sufferer I am interested to know what they might do. Chemo sorted mine for now. I am aware that they have developed more surgical options for lung cancer patients and that radio therapy was also mentioned to me using some of the newer approaches to soft tissue. I think you are right to explore the options xx

[Superkim in reply to Lyndy]

Thanks. I have drains since April. And that has kept the fluid in check, but the tumors are growing despite draining and that's got me worried. If they do debulking in the abdomen, they should be able to do it in the chest...just my opinion.

Glad your MPE is managed.

[Broader]

Sorry I can’t offer any help or advice but to let you know I’m thinking of you, keep banging on them doors girl ! Take care, wishing you well.

Christine x