Mesothelioma Treatment at Mount Sinai

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall. Approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year, with the primary risk factor being exposure to Asbestos. Asbestos has historically been used for insulation in homes and buildings, putting construction workers, pipe fitters, and shipyard workers at the highest risk due to their long-term exposure. The development of mesothelioma can take several decades after exposure to Asbestos, making it difficult to detect early on. Symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath may be subtle, and many individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, it causes a restrictive pattern in the affected area of the chest.

To provide the least invasive and personalized treatment plans, a team of specialists led by Dr. Raja M. Flores, Chairman of the Department of Thoracic Surgery, reviews each case at Mount Sinai. This team consists of thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and pathologists. The best outcomes are achieved through a multi-modality approach, combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. At Mount Sinai, treatment plans are tailored to each patient, taking into account their individual needs and optimizing their quality of life. Dr. Flores, a renowned expert in mesothelioma treatment with over 15 years of experience, advocates for lung-sparing techniques whenever possible during surgery. The coordination of care between different specialties is seamless, as all aspects of treatment are centralized in one location.

Mount Sinai is also actively involved in mesothelioma research. Dr. Flores and his team have conducted extensive studies comparing different surgical approaches, such as extra pleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy or decortication. Additionally, they participate in various research studies, ranging from molecular research to treatment protocols and clinical trials. Mount Sinai is a member of national consortiums that utilize tissue specimens to gain a better understanding of the disease and improve treatment options for their patients.