Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic – Cleveland, Ohio Medical Center

The Cleveland Clinic, founded in 1921, started as a group practice with a focus on patient care, research, and medical education. Over the years, it has grown into a well-known and respected medical institution and has been at the forefront of cancer research and treatment for decades. The Taussig Cancer Institute at the Cleveland Clinic is a top center for comprehensive cancer care, named after renowned cancer specialist Dr. William S. Taussig. The clinic has helped improve cancer treatments with new surgeries, important research, and by bringing together specialists from different areas to provide effective care.

Mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by mined and imported asbestos, has been a focus area of research and treatment at the Cleveland Clinic. In the past, researchers at the institution have contributed to understanding the underlying mechanisms of mesothelioma development, leading to potential targeted therapies. Today, the Cleveland Clinic provides thorough care for mesothelioma, combining cell pathology, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and supportive care to help improve patients’ quality of life. Their impact extends far past its walls and has greatly influenced the healthcare landscape in Ohio and beyond. As one of the largest employers in Ohio, the Cleveland Clinic contributes significantly to the state’s economy. As a major academic medical treatment center future healthcare professionals undergo medical education and training on site.

Cleveland Clinic Mesothelioma and Treatment Programs

The Cleveland Clinic offers treatment programs for both mesothelioma and lung cancer patients through its Taussig Cancer Institute and Respiratory Institute. Similar to the International Mesothelioma Program in Boston, the hospital’s Mesothelioma Program is dedicated to providing specialized care for patients with the rare and aggressive cancer. Mesothelioma medical centers are specialized facilities dedicated to providing advanced care for patients living with mesothelioma. Well-known mesothelioma treatment centers include Mount Sinai Medical Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

The program includes a team of expert thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. Each specialist collaborates to develop personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s unique condition and need. Treatment for mesothelioma at Cleveland Clinic may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of treatment options. The clinic’s skilled thoracic surgeons perform various surgical procedures for mesothelioma, including pleurectomy/decortication (P/D) and extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), to remove tumors and alleviate persistent mesothelioma symptoms.

Chemotherapy options at Cleveland Clinic may include systemic and intrapleural chemotherapy to target cancer cells and slow disease progression. Radiation therapy involves measuring dosimetry and using high-energy radiation that targets and destroys cancer cells, relieves pain and reduces tumor size. As mesothelioma research and medical advancements continue, treatment options and programs evolve. If you or a loved one are seeking treatment for mesothelioma or lung cancer, it’s best to consult directly with the Cleveland Clinic’s experts to determine the most appropriate and up-to-date treatment plan.

Lung Specialists and Clinical Trails at Cleveland Clinic

Some well-known doctors and specialists associated with the Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Institute recognized for their expertise in lung cancer and mesothelioma, include:

• Dr. Daniel Raymond: thoracic surgeon with extensive experience in lung cancer surgeries.
• Dr. Peter Mazzone: expert lung cancer pulmonologist with expertise in screening and early detection.
• Dr. James Steenson: lung cancer oncologist and researcher focused on new treatments and clinical trials.
• Dr. Rodney Landreneau: thoracic surgeon and research with a focus on lung cancer and robotic-assisted surgery.
• Dr. Sudish Murthy: thoracic surgeon known for his expertise in minimally invasive lung cancer and mesothelioma surgeries.

The Cleveland Clinic also takes part in many clinical trials and aims to develop groundbreaking treatments that often involve immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and chemotherapies. Mesothelioma clinical trials that are underway and recruiting at the Cleveland Clinic, include:

• Phase 3 Trial Testing the Addition of Targeted Radiation Therapy to Surgery and the Usual Chemotherapy Treatment (Pemetrexed and Cisplatin [or Carboplatin]) for Stage I-IIIA Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (Last Update: March 28, 2023)
• Phase 1 Study of “IAG933” in Patients With Advanced Mesothelioma and Other Solid Tumors (Last Update: July 20, 2023)

Treatment Specialties in Cleveland Clinic

Because mesothelioma is aggressive and doesn’t respond well to traditional treatments, it often needs a team approach to fight it effectively. The choice of treatment for mesothelioma depends on various factors, including the stage of disease, the patient’s overall health, and the specific location of the cancer.

Experts of the Cleveland Clinic work together to develop personalized treatment plans so that each patient has a fighting chance. Some important treatment options that have shown promise in the battle against mesothelioma include:

• Surgery: Surgical procedures performed by specialists at Cleveland Clinic include Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D), Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP), and Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC).
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating mesothelioma by enhancing the body’s immune response to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: This form of therapy is done under a mesothelioma radiologist’s direction and involves using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It can be used as a standalone treatment for symptom relief or as part of a multimodal approach alongside surgery and chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy involves using drugs specifically targeting certain genetic mutations or proteins in mesothelioma cells. These drugs aim to inhibit tumor growth and have the potential to be more effective and less toxic than traditional chemotherapy.
• Palliative Care: Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for mesothelioma patients by managing symptoms, providing pain relief, and addressing emotional and psychological well-being.

Financial Assistance for Treatment in Cleveland

Mesothelioma patients may face significant financial challenges due to the high costs associated with treatment and care. However, there are several avenues through which they can seek financial assistance, including health insurance coverage and potential legal compensation. It’s important to seek guidance and assistance from experienced professionals in navigating these financial options.

Legal Compensation, Other Benefits, and Assistance

Asbestos Trust funds provide financial assistance to mesothelioma patients and their families. Many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established trust funds to compensate victims. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help patients identify and file claims against relevant trust funds. Mesothelioma patients who were exposed to asbestos due to negligence on the part of asbestos manufacturers, employers, or other parties may have grounds for a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. A successful lawsuit can lead to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

Various nonprofit organizations and support groups dedicated to mesothelioma provide financial assistance, resources, and support to patients and their families. These organizations may offer grants, travel assistance for seeking treatment, and access to treatment options. Participating in Clinical trials can sometimes provide access to cutting-edge treatments at reduced or no cost. Additionally, Some clinical trials may offer compensation for participating in the research. Patients who cannot work due to mesothelioma or its treatment may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs provide financial assistance to individuals with disabilities.

Health Insurance

Mesothelioma patients with private health insurance should review their policy to understand the extent of coverage for cancer treatments and other related medical expenses. They should also check if the policy covers visits to specialized cancer centers or clinical trials, as these may be important aspects of treatment. Patients over the age of 65 or those with limited financial resources may be eligible for Medicare or Medicaid, respectively. These government-funded programs can help cover medical expenses, including those related to mesothelioma treatment. Some mesothelioma patients may have insurance coverage through their employers. It’s essential to understand the coverage options and any potential financial assistance programs the employer offers. Consulting with a mesothelioma attorney and speaking with social workers or patient advocates at treatment centers can help mesothelioma patients explore available resources and secure the financial assistance they need for their treatment and care.

Nearby Clinic Address and Locations

The Cleveland Clinic’s main campus is in Cleveland, Ohio, called A building. They also have 22 hospitals and 275 outpatient buildings and health clinics.

A Building

Location: 2049 East 100th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44195

Phone: 216-444-2200

Akron General Hospital

Location: 1 Akron General Avenue, Akron, Ohio 44307

Phone: 330-344-6000

Disclaimer: Cleveland Clinic Institute has no professional affiliation with Mesotheliomahub.com