Does video-assisted thoracoscopic decortication in advanced malignant mesothelioma improve prognosis?

A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: Does video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) decortication in advanced malignant mesothelioma improve prognosis? Altogether more than 25 papers were found using the reported search, of which five represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. We conclude that VATS decortication is useful as a palliative measure in advanced malignant mesothelioma. VATS provides a diagnostic tool, yielding tissue for histological diagnosis. Secondly, drainage of effusion and pleurectomy/decortication improves the quality of life and may increase survival as well.