Wednesday, September 20, 2023
"Genetic Cancer" or "Hereditary Cancer"?
What is Pancreatic Cancer and How is the "Whipple Surgery" Applied in the Treatment Process?
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. What is pancreatic cancer, what are its symptoms, and what is done in treatment? How is the "Whipple technique," one of the most difficult surgeries in the field of general surgery, applied?
What is Pancreatic Cancer and What Are Its Symptoms?
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive cancer type that originates from the cells forming the ducts of the pancreas. The symptoms may vary depending on the location of the tumor within the pancreas. In most cases, the tumor is found in the head of the pancreas and manifests with complaints such as jaundice, itching, indigestion, weight loss, and pain. The weight loss may also result from the pressure the cancer places on the duodenum. The pain typically starts in the upper abdomen and radiates to the back like a belt. It is important to highlight that especially in the early stages, if jaundice develops without pain, pancreatic cancer should be considered as a possible cause. When jaundice is accompanied by pain, it is often due to gallstones.Can Pancreatic Cancer Spread to Other Organs (Metastasis)?
In pancreatic cancer, the development of metastasis, excluding local lymph node metastases, indicates stage 4, and in this case, surgical treatment is no longer an option. The most common organ for pancreatic cancer metastasis is the liver.What Are the Causes of Pancreatic Cancer?
The exact causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood. However, scientific studies show that smoking and genetic predisposition are important factors.Who is at Risk?
Pancreatic cancer is more likely to develop in individuals who use tobacco products, males, and those over the age of 65. While the incidence of pancreatic cancer seems to have increased, this is not due to a rise in the number of cases, but rather due to the increased average life expectancy of individuals.Can Pancreatic Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no definitive way to prevent pancreatic cancer, but avoiding tobacco products can provide some protection. In addition, regular physical activity, healthy eating, and weight control are important factors that contribute to maintaining this protection.
What is Done in the Treatment Process?
Unfortunately, patients with pancreatic cancer typically seek medical help when the cancer has already progressed. However, in those who present early with jaundice symptoms, early diagnosis becomes possible. The best treatment option for pancreatic cancer is surgery. In addition, palliative chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy may also be considered.How is the "Whipple Surgery," One of the Most Difficult Techniques in General Surgery, Applied?
Surgical techniques may vary depending on the location of the tumor. For example, in patients where the tumor is located in the head of the pancreas, the "Whipple" technique is used. This is a very difficult procedure with a high risk of complications. In this technique, the last third of the stomach, duodenum, head of the pancreas, bile duct, and gallbladder are removed. It is also important to remove the lymph nodes in these regions. Finally, the pancreatic duct, bile duct, and stomach are reconnected to the small intestine, and the surgery is completed.Is the Whipple Technique Suitable for Every Patient?
The application of this technique is decided based on certain criteria, including the patient’s overall condition. In general, for patients with vascular involvement, specific criteria need to be considered before using this technique. However, vascular involvement does not always present an obstacle.Can Patients Quickly Return to Their Social Life After Surgery?
It is undoubtedly a major and challenging surgery for both the patients and the surgeons. However, in surgeries performed by experienced teams in this field, patients can return to their normal lives within two weeks. Since a part of the pancreas is removed, there is a risk of diabetes (sugar disease), so it is important to inform the patients about this. The head of the pancreas is an important area where some critical enzymes are produced, and drug treatment is required to replace these enzymes. When the body or tail of the pancreas is removed, where insulin is predominantly produced, patients will develop diabetes, and therefore, appropriate medication must be provided.
If Another Technique is Applied in Pancreatic Cancer, Will There Be Any Restrictions in the Patients’ Lives After Surgery?
If another technique besides the Whipple procedure is used, depending on how much the pancreas or intestine is affected, patients may face different restrictions in their lives post-surgery. Additionally, depending on the stage of the tumor, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiotherapy may be required as adjunct treatments.
Last Updated Date: 20 September 2023
Publication Date: 20 September 2023
Related Medical Articles
Doctors
