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Pancreatic resection is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a part of the pancreas. This surgery is typically performed to treat a tumor and may include removing the body and tail of the pancreas. In some cases, the spleen may also be removed.
The pancreas is located in the abdomen, behind the stomach and in front of the spine.
Surgical procedure
Before undergoing pancreatic resection, several tests may be required, including:
Your doctor may also recommend chemotherapy for borderline resectable tumors, pre-operative medications to reduce infection risk, and bowel preparation. It’s essential to discuss the type of surgery, recovery time, risks, and anesthesia with your healthcare provider.
On the day of surgery, you’ll need to fast for at least 10 to 12 hours before the procedure. An anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia via an IV to keep you asleep during the surgery. The surgeon may use open surgery for full access to the pancreas and surrounding organs, although laparoscopic or robotic surgery may be used in some cases for quicker recovery. Robotic surgery provides the most precise results and the quickest recovery time.
Recovery typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the type of surgery (open or laparoscopic) and your overall health. You’ll need to take time off from work to rest and heal, and light walking is encouraged to improve circulation and build strength. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until fully recovered.
Pancreatic resection is a major surgery, and your hospital stay may last from one to three weeks, depending on your recovery. After surgery, you may need chemotherapy or a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to improve survival rates, but these treatments are only started once you have fully recovered.
Post-surgery, you may experience abdominal pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor your recovery. If you undergo complete pancreatic resection, you will require pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy and possibly insulin injections for proper digestion.
Pancreatic resection carries several risks, with studies showing that approximately 41% of cases have some form of complication. Common risks include:
It’s crucial to discuss the potential risks with your doctor to make an informed decision about undergoing pancreatic resection.