Pancreatic Cancer Surgery

It is a surgical procedure to remove cancerous cells. Depending on the location of the tumor, part or all of the pancreas may be removed. Pancreatic cancer surgery, helps prevent the spread of cancer and prolong the patient's life. It is usually supported by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The surgery is performed with precision by experienced surgeons.

In Which Situations Is Pancreatic Cancer Surgery Performed?

Surgery may be performed for tumors that are in the early stages and have not spread outside the pancreas. In this case, the tumor can be completely removed and the progression of the cancer can be stopped. If the cancer has not affected the main vessels around the pancreas, the chance of surgery is higher. Surgery is also considered for such localized but not advanced tumors.

Even if the cancer is incurable, palliative surgery is performed to improve the quality of life. These operations are performed to open blocked bile ducts and relieve the digestive system. If the tumor is too large to be operated on, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy are used to shrink the tumor. If the tumor can be surgically removed after this neoadjuvant treatment, surgery is performed. Pancreatic cancer surgery It is complex and carries high risks, so the patient's health status and the potential benefits of surgery are carefully considered.

How is Pancreatic Cancer Surgery Performed?

Before the operation, the patient's general health, blood values, heart and lung functions are evaluated. The necessary imaging tests (MR, CT, PET-CT) are performed. The patient is put under general anesthesia. They are completely asleep during the operation. The surgical approach is determined according to the location of the tumor. Whipple (pancreaticoduodenectomy), distal pancreatectomy, or total pancreatectomy methods can be applied. The Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) is performed if the tumor is in the head of the pancreas. The head of the pancreas, duodenum (the duodenum), gallbladder, and stomach are removed. The remaining organs are reattached so that the digestive system can function normally.

Distal pancreatectomy is performed when the tumor is located in the tail or body of the pancreas. The tail of the pancreas and, if necessary, a portion of the spleen are removed. Total pancreatectomy is performed when the entire pancreas needs to be removed. The entire pancreas, gallbladder, duodenum, and portions of the spleen are removed. Pancreatic cancer surgery Blood vessels are tied to prevent bleeding during the operation. Careful stitching is done to prevent digestive fluids from leaking. Depending on the organs removed during the operation, the organs in the digestive system are reattached. A drain is placed to drain fluids from the surgical site. The patient is monitored in intensive care. Medication, pain management, and nutritional support are provided.

Things to Consider After Pancreatic Cancer Surgery

The digestive system may become sensitive after surgery. It is important to follow a low-fat, easily digestible diet program recommended by a dietitian. While protein and fiber-rich foods support healing, heavy and fatty foods should be avoided. The risk of infection after surgery may be high. Attention should be paid to the cleanliness of wounds and recommended care instructions should be followed.

If signs of infection such as fever, pain or discharge are seen, a doctor should be consulted immediately. The prescribed painkillers, antibiotics and digestive aids should be used regularly. When using medications, attention should be paid to the recommended dosage and timing. In addition, habits such as alcohol and smoking should be completely avoided during this period. Pancreatic cancer surgery After the procedure, slow and light-paced walks are recommended. This helps speed up blood circulation and contributes to recovery. However, heavy activities should be avoided and movements should not be overly strenuous.

Regular doctor check-ups should not be skipped after the operation. During these check-ups, the risk of cancer recurrence or the healing process is closely monitored. In addition, necessary tests should be performed regularly in accordance with the doctor's recommendations. The post-operative process can be both physically and psychologically challenging. Getting family support, and when necessary, getting help from a psychologist and support groups, provides morale and motivation during this process. Pancreatic cancer surgery After the operation, it is possible to have a healthy recovery process by following all the recommendations of the doctor.