Pancreatic Cancer

Treatment is planned as a Whipple operation, distal pancreatectomy or total pancreatectomy depending on the location of the tumour (head, body or tail) and its stage. In appropriate cases, resectability can be improved with neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

• Patients with unexplained weight loss, jaundice and abdominal pain
• Those experiencing new-onset diabetes or an episode of pancreatitis
• Those in whom a pancreatic mass is detected on imaging
• Those with a family history of pancreatic cancer and carriers of genetic syndromes
• Patients assessed by the tumour board as resectable or borderline

1. 1

   Pre-Assessment & Diagnosis

   The diagnosis is confirmed and the stage of the disease clarified through a detailed history, physical examination and the necessary imaging and laboratory tests.

2. 2

   Planning & Preparation

   An anaesthesia consultation, bleeding profile and review of any accompanying conditions are carried out; a multidisciplinary council decision is taken when needed.

3. 3

   Procedure / Operation

   The procedure is performed with the technique most suitable for the patient (laparoscopic, robotic or open); tissue integrity and oncological principles are preserved.

4. 4

   Follow-up & Monitoring

   Early mobilization, pain control and wound monitoring are provided; suture removal and a general assessment check-up are planned after discharge.

In major resections such as a Whipple operation, the recovery process requires careful monitoring and is carried out with a multidisciplinary team.