Pancreatic Cancer
Department of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the pancreas. The pancreas lies behind the lower part of the stomach. It makes enzymes that help digest food and hormones that help manage blood sugar.
The most common type of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This type begins in the cells that line the ducts that carry digestive enzymes out of the pancreas.
Pancreatic cancer rarely is found at its early stages when the chance of curing it is greatest. This is because it often doesn’t cause symptoms until after it has spread to other organs.
Types
1.Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: Most common type, arising from exocrine cells.
2.Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNETs): Less common, arise from hormone-producing cells.
Diagnosis
1.Imaging Tests: CT, MRI, or PET scans to visualize the pancreas.
2.Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Combining endoscopy and ultrasound for detailed imaging.
3.Biopsy: Tissue sample analysis for confirmation.
Treatment
1.Surgery: Removal of tumors, often including the Whipple procedure.
2.Chemotherapy: Drugs to destroy or control cancer cells.
3.Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays targeting cancer cells.
4.Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
Pancreatic Cancer Overview
- Surgery Time: 4 to 8 hours
- Stay in the Country: 4 to 6 weeks
- Rehabilitation Duration: 2 to 4 months
- Price: €25,000 to €60,000
- Initial Consultation: Diagnosis with imaging (CT, MRI, PET) and biopsy, followed by consultation with a pancreatic surgeon.
- Pre-Surgery: Pre-operative tests and preparation, including possible chemotherapy or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor.
- Surgery: Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) or other surgical approaches, lasting 4 to 8 hours.
- Post-Surgery: Hospital stay for 1 to 2 weeks to monitor recovery and manage any complications.
- Rehabilitation: Recovery with support for dietary and digestive function, and physical rehabilitation.
- Final Recovery: Ongoing follow-up care to monitor recovery, manage any residual disease, and ensure there’s no recurrence.
