Ponatinib is a potential therapeutic approach for malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Purpose: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and deadly malignancy. Current MPM therapies remain inadequate, and outcomes are often disappointing. New meaningful therapeutic approaches are urgently needed.

Radiotherapy is Associated With Improved Survival in Patients With Synovial Sarcoma Undergoing Surgery: A National Cancer Database Analysis.

Background: Previous studies have demonstrated an association of perioperative radiotherapy (RT) with improved survival in patients with synovial sarcoma (SS) undergoing surgery, but the mechanism for this is unknown. In this study, we sought to further analyze this association using a hospital-based data set where data on chemotherapy administration and surgical margin status are available.

Methods: Using the National Cancer Database, we identified 1216 patients with SS (aged ≥18 y) from 2004-2012 undergoing surgery.

Minimally invasive surgical management of penetrating chest injury from kinetic impact bean bag projectile.

Bean bag guns are considered "non-lethal" weapons used by law enforcement. There are emerging reports in the medical literature on management of penetrating, intrathoracic injuries and none were found that involve potential cardiac complications. We present a case of a penetrating bean bag involving the pericardium.

Cardiopulmonary Testing Before Lung Resection: What Are Thoracic Surgeons Doing?

Background: Cardiopulmonary assessment for lung resection is important for risk stratification, and the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) guidelines provide decision support. We ascertained the cardiopulmonary assessment practices of thoracic surgeons and determined whether they are guideline concordant.

Methods: An anonymous survey was emailed to 846 thoracic surgeons who participate in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database.

Thoracic Surgeons' Beliefs and Practices on Smoking Cessation Before Lung Resection.

Background: Smoking is a risk factor for complications after lung resection. Our primary aim was to ascertain thoracic surgeons' beliefs and practices on smoking cessation before lung resection.

Methods: An anonymous survey was emailed to 846 thoracic surgeons who participate in The Society of Thoracic Surgeons General Thoracic Surgery Database.