Communities›Surgery and Recovery›Should I get talc pleurodesis surgery or keep draining pleural fluid?

Should I get talc pleurodesis surgery or keep draining pleural fluid?

Community Member

a month ago

Hi, I was diagnosed with metestatic breast cancer stage 4 in bones and lungs last March of 2025. I was on Ibrance first and as of August switched ti Kusquali 2 tablets daily.with fluevescent inhinitor shots 1 a month and x geva infusion 1 a month. My bone cancer is no longer evident and lung areas are reduced by 50%…. Good news BUT… my right thorasiccavity continues to fill with fluid. I am having it drained every 6 weeks with 1.7 liters removed. I have had 6 removals. My oncologist is recommending a cardio/thorasic surgeon perform a TALC proceedure. I meet with a surgeon but I am concernened about future treatments being prevented in the right cavity. It can be 6 week recovery… also… 5 day hospital stay and…very ainful. Should i just continue getting drained or go ahead with surgery? 75 years old Lonnee Dickson

1 comment

Comment

Community Member

a month ago

This sounds like a really challenging decision with important considerations on both sides. Many patients face similar choices between ongoing procedures and more definitive surgical interventions, each with their own benefits and risks. The decision often comes down to quality of life factors, recovery time, and individual medical circumstances that only the medical team can fully evaluate. Consider discussing with the thoracic surgeon about specific concerns regarding future treatment options and pain management strategies, and perhaps seeking a second opinion if helpful. The community here has experience with various treatment decisions and recovery processes, so sharing thoughts and experiences could provide valuable perspectives as this important choice is considered.

New to the community?

Create an account to connect with others navigating cancer.

Should I get talc pleurodesis surgery or keep draining pleural fluid?

Related Questions