Pancreatic cancer impacts the pancreas, a digestive gland located in your abdomen. Common signs of pancreatic cancer encompass feelings of nausea, abdominal bloating, fatigue, jaundice, and a diminished appetite. Available treatment options involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The low survival rates associated with pancreatic cancer are primarily due to the challenge of early detection.
Pancreatic cancer commences when abnormal cells within the pancreas multiply uncontrollably, giving rise to a tumor.
The pancreas, a gland situated deep in the abdominal cavity, lies between the stomach and the spine. It plays a vital role in digestion by producing enzymes and regulating blood sugar levels with its hormones.
Organs, including the pancreas, consist of cells that typically divide when necessary and undergo a natural cycle of replacement as old cells expire. Occasionally, this process malfunctions, leading to the proliferation of new cells when they are not needed, and old cells fail to die off. The surplus cells can aggregate into a mass of tissue known as a tumor.
Some tumors are non-cancerous, meaning they are abnormal but lack the capacity to invade other body parts.
In contrast, a cancerous tumor is malignant. Its cells multiply uncontrollably and can metastasize to other tissues and organs.
Even when cancer extends to different parts of the body, it retains its designation as pancreatic cancer if it initially originated in the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer frequently spreads to the liver, abdominal wall, lungs, bones, and lymph nodes.
Pancreatic cancers are categorized as either exocrine or neuroendocrine (endocrine) tumors, depending on the type of cells from which they originate. Understanding the tumor’s type is crucial because each exhibits distinct behavior and necessitates different treatment approaches.
Exocrine tumors constitute the majority, comprising over 90% of pancreatic cancers. The prevalent form of pancreatic cancer is adenocarcinoma.
In contrast, neuroendocrine tumors, also known as pancreatic NETs or PNETs and occasionally referred to as islet cell tumors, represent less than 10% of pancreatic tumors. They often exhibit a slower growth rate compared to exocrine tumors.
We don’t know exactly what causes pancreatic cancer. However, experts have identified some risk factors.
Pancreatic cancer can manifest with subtle and unexplained symptoms, including:
If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to promptly consult your GI surgeon in Jaipur and discuss the possibility of pancreatic cancer.
A pancreatic tumor becomes visible through imaging studies like a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Following this, the doctor extracts a tissue sample from the tumor to determine the precise diagnosis.
Surgery is the sole viable method for curing pancreatic cancer. However, surgeons typically advise it only when they believe they can eradicate the entire cancerous growth. In cases where complete removal is unfeasible, the benefits are limited.
For surgery to achieve its intended outcome, the cancer must be entirely restricted to the pancreas. Nevertheless, in some instances, achieving total cancer removal may prove challenging.
Several surgical techniques are available, contingent on the tumor’s size and location:
If the tumor is located in the head of the pancreas (the widest section, near the small intestine), a GI cancer surgeon may recommend the Whipple procedure. This surgical approach involves the removal of the pancreatic head, duodenum (the initial part of the small intestine), gallbladder, a segment of the bile duct, and adjacent lymph nodes.
In the case of a tumor in the tail of the pancreas, a GI cancer surgeon can perform a distal pancreatectomy. During this procedure, the surgeon removes the pancreatic tail and a portion of the pancreatic body. In most instances, the spleen is also removed. To address the potential loss of immune function associated with spleen removal, your healthcare provider may recommend specific vaccinations before undergoing a distal pancreatectomy.
When cancer has spread throughout the entire pancreas, yet surgical resection is still an option, your GI cancer surgeon may contemplate a total pancreatectomy. This surgery entails the complete removal of your pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and a portion of your stomach and small intestine.
Living without a pancreas is possible, but it may lead to significant side effects. The pancreas plays a crucial role in producing insulin and other hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. Without a pancreas, you will develop diabetes and require insulin injections for survival. Additionally, you’ll need to take pancreatic enzyme pills to assist with digestion.
Choosing a GI surgeon in Jaipur for pancreatic cancer surgery is a crucial decision, and several factors should be considered. Here are some reasons why you might consider him for pancreatic cancer surgery:
Expertise and Experience: Dr. Saurabh Kalia is a specialized GI cancer surgeon with extensive experience in performing surgeries for pancreatic cancer.
Subspecialization: Dr. Kalia’s subspecialization in GI cancer surgery means he has in-depth knowledge and experience specific to the surgical treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Individualized Treatment: Dr. Saurbah Kalia is likely to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique situation. He will evaluate the stage of the cancer, and the patient’s overall health.
Positive Patient Outcomes: Dr. Saurabh Kalia’s history of successful surgeries and positive patient testimonials can provide confidence in his abilities and the quality of care he provides.
Pancreatic cancer surgery is a treatment option that involves the removal of cancerous tissue from the pancreas. It is typically recommended when the cancer is localized and hasn’t spread to other organs. Your doctor will assess your specific case to determine if surgery is appropriate for you.
There are several surgical options for pancreatic cancer, including the Whipple procedure, distal pancreatectomy, and total pancreatectomy. The choice of surgery depends on the tumor location and size. Your medical team will discuss the options and help you make an informed decision based on your condition.
Like any surgical procedure, pancreatic cancer surgery carries certain risks, such as infection, bleeding, or damage to nearby organs. Your healthcare team will discuss these risks with you, and they will take steps to minimize them. They will also guide how to manage potential complications post-surgery.
Recovery after pancreatic cancer surgery can be challenging. You may experience pain, changes in diet, and potential side effects. Your healthcare team will provide post-operative care instructions and support to help you manage these aspects of recovery, including pain management and nutritional guidance.
Preparing for surgery involves both physical and emotional readiness. Your healthcare team will guide you through pre-surgery tests and preparations. Additionally, they can provide resources for emotional support, such as counseling or support groups, to help you cope with the psychological aspects of your diagnosis and treatment.
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Dr Saurabh Kalia is a very good and experienced GI surgeon. If I am safe today, it is because of his treatment. Dr. Saurabh Kalia likes to work very carefully and quickly. He saves the patient first. Thank you, boss.
Thank you so much sir you treated my father-in-law. We did not expect at all that he would be cured like this...your behavior is very commendable and of a high standard...and I have full faith I hope you will continue saving people's lives like this... once again thank you very much, sir.
I have never seen a doctor like this in the past, very intelligent calm and cool. Best in class
Best treatment and behavior by Dr. Kalia... Really the best experience and treatment