Benjamin Kozower MD Mesothelioma: A Comprehensive Guide

🩺 Who is Benjamin Kozower, MD?

Benjamin Kozower, MD, is a thoracic surgeon and assistant professor at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Kozower has a special interest in the surgical treatment of lung cancer, esophageal cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma, and other thoracic diseases. He has extensive expertise in minimally invasive thoracic surgery, including video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and robotic-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS).

🎓 Education and Training

Dr. Kozower earned his undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis and his medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School. He completed his residency in general surgery at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and his fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Virginia Health System.

🧑‍⚕️ Clinical Practice

Dr. Kozower is a member of the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery and provides patient care at both Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis. He is board-certified in both general surgery and thoracic surgery.

🏥 Research and Publications

Dr. Kozower is actively involved in clinical and translational research aimed at improving the outcomes of patients with thoracic malignancies. He has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters and has presented his research at numerous national and international conferences.

🫁 What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral that was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries until its health risks became apparent.

🩸 Types of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma can be classified into several subtypes based on the location of the tumor and the type of cells involved. The most common types are:

Type	Location	Cell Type
Pleural Mesothelioma	Lungs	Epithelioid, Sarcomatoid, or Biphasic
Peritoneal Mesothelioma	Abdomen	Epithelioid, Sarcomatoid, or Biphasic
Pericardial Mesothelioma	Heart	Epithelioid, Sarcomatoid, or Biphasic

🔎 Symptoms and Diagnosis

Mesothelioma symptoms can be vague and nonspecific, which can make it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Chronic cough
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Night sweats

Doctors may use a variety of tests to diagnose mesothelioma, including:

• Chest X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI
• PET scan
• Biopsy

💊 Treatment Options

The treatment of mesothelioma depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy

👨‍⚕️ Benjamin Kozower’s Approach to Mesothelioma Treatment

Dr. Kozower and his team at the Washington University School of Medicine offer a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of mesothelioma. This means that patients are seen by a team of specialists who work together to develop an individualized treatment plan that takes into account the patient’s unique needs and circumstances.

👥 Multidisciplinary Team

The mesothelioma team at Washington University includes:

• Thoracic surgeons
• Medical oncologists
• Radiation oncologists
• Pathologists
• Radiologists
• Nurse practitioners

Working together, these specialists provide the most advanced and effective treatment options available.

🔬 Research and Clinical Trials

Dr. Kozower and his team are actively involved in clinical and translational research aimed at improving the outcomes of patients with mesothelioma. This includes participation in clinical trials that test new and innovative treatments.

🏆 Recognitions and Awards

Dr. Kozower has received numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to the field of thoracic surgery. These include:

• The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Looking to the Future Award
• The Washington University School of Medicine Distinguished Clinician Award
• The Washington University Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award

🤔 FAQs About Benjamin Kozower MD Mesothelioma

1. What is Dr. Kozower’s experience in treating mesothelioma?

Dr. Kozower has extensive experience in the surgical treatment of mesothelioma, including pleurectomy with decortication (P/D) and extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP). He also has expertise in minimally invasive thoracic surgery techniques.

2. Where does Dr. Kozower provide patient care?

Dr. Kozower provides patient care at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis, Missouri.

3. Does Dr. Kozower participate in clinical trials for mesothelioma?

Yes, Dr. Kozower and his team are actively involved in clinical and translational research aimed at improving the outcomes of patients with mesothelioma. This includes participation in clinical trials that test new and innovative treatments.

4. What types of mesothelioma does Dr. Kozower treat?

Dr. Kozower treats all types of mesothelioma, including pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial mesothelioma.

5. What is Dr. Kozower’s approach to treating mesothelioma?

Dr. Kozower takes a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of mesothelioma, meaning that patients are seen by a team of specialists who work together to develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.

6. What are Dr. Kozower’s qualifications?

Dr. Kozower is a board-certified thoracic surgeon with extensive experience in the surgical treatment of thoracic malignancies. He earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan Medical School and completed his fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Virginia Health System.

7. How can I schedule an appointment with Dr. Kozower?

Patients can schedule an appointment with Dr. Kozower by contacting the Washington University School of Medicine Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery.

✅ Take Action Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek treatment from a team of specialists with experience in treating this rare and aggressive cancer. Dr. Benjamin Kozower and his team at the Washington University School of Medicine offer state-of-the-art care and a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.

Contact the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery today to schedule a consultation.

📝 Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice or to replace consultation with your physician or healthcare provider. If you have any questions about mesothelioma or its treatment, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional.