The Importance of Choosing the Right Mesothelioma Treatment and Care
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. The disease is caused by exposure to asbestos, and unfortunately, it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage when treatment options are limited. However, with the right medical team and treatment plan, mesothelioma patients can live longer and with a better quality of life.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, choosing the right healthcare provider is critical. The University of Maryland Medical Center is one of the leading institutions for mesothelioma treatment and research in the United States. In this article, we will explore the mesothelioma program at the University of Maryland and what makes it a top-notch facility for patients.
About the Mesothelioma Program at the University of Maryland
The University of Maryland Medical Center’s mesothelioma program is a multidisciplinary team of experts that provides comprehensive care to patients with mesothelioma. The team includes mesothelioma specialists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and pulmonologists. The program has been in operation for over 20 years, offering patients cutting-edge treatments and innovative research.
The Mesothelioma Team
The mesothelioma team at the University of Maryland is composed of some of the most experienced and respected healthcare providers in the country. The team includes:
| Name | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Dr. Joseph Friedberg | Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery |
| Dr. Daniel Zelterman | Director of the Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics in the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health |
| Dr. Mark Krasna | Chief of the Division of Thoracic Oncology |
| Dr. Stephen Yang | Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery |
The Mesothelioma Treatment Approach
The University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program believes that a personalized approach to treatment is essential to providing the best care for patients. The team takes a comprehensive approach to mesothelioma treatment, which includes:
Surgical Treatment: Surgery can be an effective treatment option for mesothelioma patients, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. The University of Maryland Medical Center has some of the most experienced thoracic surgeons in the country, who perform both traditional and minimally invasive procedures.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is a common treatment option for mesothelioma patients, and the University of Maryland uses the latest technology for radiation treatment, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. The Mesothelioma Program at the University of Maryland offers both traditional and clinical trial chemotherapy options for patients.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a newer treatment approach that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. The University of Maryland is one of the few institutions in the country offering immunotherapy treatments for mesothelioma patients.
The Research Focus
The Mesothelioma Program at the University of Maryland is committed to advancing mesothelioma research to improve treatment options and outcomes for patients. The program has numerous ongoing research studies, including clinical trials investigating new treatments and biomarkers that can help diagnose and monitor mesothelioma.
The Support Services
The University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program understands the emotional and psychological challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. The program has a wide range of support services available for patients and their families, including support groups, counseling, and financial assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma Treatment at the University of Maryland
1. How do I make an appointment at the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program?
To make an appointment or learn more about the mesothelioma program at the University of Maryland, you can call 410-328-6366 or email meso@umm.edu.
2. Will I be able to choose my own treatment plan?
The mesothelioma team at the University of Maryland believes in a personalized approach to treatment, and they will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
3. What types of surgeries are performed at the University of Maryland for mesothelioma treatment?
The thoracic surgeons at the University of Maryland perform a range of surgical procedures for mesothelioma treatment, including extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), pleurectomy/decortication (P/D), and lung-sparing surgeries.
4. What factors are considered when determining a patient’s eligibility for surgery?
The team at the University of Maryland evaluates each patient individually to determine their eligibility for surgery. Factors that may impact eligibility include the stage and location of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and their ability to tolerate surgery and anesthesia.
5. What types of radiation therapy are available at the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program?
The University of Maryland offers a range of radiation therapy options, including external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), brachytherapy, and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
6. How is chemotherapy used in mesothelioma treatment?
Chemotherapy drugs can be delivered directly into the patient’s chest through an intrapleural catheter, or they can be given intravenously. Chemotherapy can be used before or after surgery or as a standalone treatment.
7. What is immunotherapy, and how is it used in mesothelioma treatment?
Immunotherapy is a newer treatment approach that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. The University of Maryland offers several clinical trial immunotherapy options for mesothelioma patients, including checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapy.
8. Does the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program offer clinical trials?
Yes, the Mesothelioma Program at the University of Maryland has several ongoing clinical trials investigating new treatment options for mesothelioma patients.
9. What types of support services are available for mesothelioma patients and their families?
The University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program offers a range of support services, including support groups, counseling, financial assistance, and more.
10. Can I still work while undergoing mesothelioma treatment?
Many patients are able to continue working during mesothelioma treatment, depending on their overall health and the type of treatment they are receiving. However, some patients may need to take time off work or reduce their workload.
11. Does the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program accept insurance?
Yes, the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program works with most major insurance providers. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance provider before scheduling an appointment.
12. What should I expect during my first appointment at the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program?
During your first appointment, you will meet with one of the mesothelioma specialists to discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and any previous treatments you have received. The provider will perform a physical exam and may order additional tests or scans. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about your treatment options.
13. How can I stay informed about mesothelioma research and new treatments?
The Mesothelioma Program at the University of Maryland is dedicated to advancing
mesothelioma research and providing patients with the latest information about treatment options. Patients and their families can sign up for the program’s e-newsletter to stay informed about new developments and research studies.
Conclusion
The University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program is a top-notch facility for patients seeking care for mesothelioma. The program’s multidisciplinary team of experts, personalized treatment approach, innovative research, and supportive services make it an ideal choice for mesothelioma patients and their families. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Mesothelioma Program at the University of Maryland for expert care and support.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t wait to seek expert medical care. Contact the University of Maryland Mesothelioma Program at 410-328-6366 or email meso@umm.edu to schedule an appointment and learn more about your treatment options.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this article, it should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. The University of Maryland Medical Center and its associated institutions cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information provided.
