Pancreatic surgery is performed to treat selected tumours, cysts, complications of pancreatitis, and other diseases affecting the pancreas.The type of operation depends largely on the location of the disease. The pancreas is located close to major blood vessels and several important digestive organs, making careful preoperative planning important.
Surgery may be considered for:
●
Pancreatic cancer
●
Selected pancreatic
cysts
●
Pancreatic
neuroendocrine tumours
●
Selected benign
pancreatic tumours
●
Complications of
chronic pancreatitis
●
Selected pancreatic
injuries
Depending on the location of the disease, surgery may
include:
●
Whipple procedure
●
Distal pancreatectomy
●
Total pancreatectomy
in selected cases
●
Cyst removal or
drainage in selected situations
Not every pancreatic cyst or tumour requires surgery. The
decision depends on its size, location, appearance, symptoms, growth, and
potential for malignancy.
For pancreatic cancer, surgery may be considered when the
tumour can be safely removed, and the patient's overall condition allows major
surgery.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies according to the type of operation. Some
patients may need changes in diet, pancreatic enzyme supplements, or monitoring
of blood sugar levels after surgery.
Regular follow-up is important after pancreatic surgery.
