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Pancreatic surgery involves the removal of part or all of the pancreas, depending on the patient’s medical condition.
The pancreas is located behind the stomach and in front of the spine, within the abdomen.
Pancreatic surgery is recommended for various disorders affecting the pancreas and surrounding tissues, including:
A gastroenterologist may suggest pancreatic surgery for the following conditions:
Pancreatic surgery can be performed using open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, or robotic surgery. The main types of procedures include:
Before undergoing pancreatic surgery, your doctor will discuss the process with you in detail. You may be instructed to:
Before surgery, your doctor will check vital signs, blood sugar, and blood pressure to ensure everything is within normal ranges. The surgery may be performed laparoscopically through small incisions or as an open surgery with a larger abdominal incision. Once the surgery is completed, the incisions are closed, and antiseptic dressings are applied to prevent infection.
Although it is a common procedure, pancreatic surgery carries some risks, including:
After surgery, pain relievers or injections will be administered to keep you comfortable. Your vital signs will be monitored, and if needed, blood or glucose may be transfused. Physiotherapy may begin during your hospital stay to help maintain your physical health. You may also practice yoga or meditation as part of your recovery routine.
Once your condition improves, you may be allowed to return home, but you will need to follow a prescribed diet and take medications as recommended. A nutritious diet is crucial for aiding recovery, as it helps your body tolerate medications and rebuild strength.
Follow-up visits are essential for monitoring recovery and ensuring that you are healing well. Additional tests may be conducted to check on your progress. Some individuals, especially older patients or those with pre-existing health conditions, may need temporary admission to a recovery center. After 4 to 6 weeks, most patients can return to normal activities, though recovery times vary based on individual health and the complexity of the surgery.
For pancreatic cancer survivors who have had a total pancreatectomy, diabetes may develop. These individuals will need to manage their condition with diabetic medications and adjust their diet accordingly for the rest of their lives.