Curative surgery for pancreatic cancer
In particular, when referring to one of the most aggressive neoplasms of the digestive system, curative surgery for pancreatic cancer is the most reliable alternative to overcome this type of malignant tumors.
However, it is a fairly complex procedure, which will also depend on the consideration of the specialist; since the possible complications, the risk of infection and even the postoperative process itself, can imply a long and tortuous evolution.
In fact, this oncological surgery must be very well analyzed before being performed, and it will only be worthwhile if it is possible to remove the tumor in its entirety; that is, it only applies in the case of resectable malignant tumors (those that can be completely removed).
Is it possible to cure pancreatic cancer with surgery?
Undoubtedly, when the objectives set in this type of surgical intervention are achieved, people with cancer can recover.
However, even though curative surgery for pancreatic cancer represents a good chance for the percentage of patients who are eligible; It is also possible that, at the beginning of the procedure, the surgeon will identify some unfavorable variations.
As a result, it is likely that the cancer has spread or even if the tumor has been completely resected, some cancer cells have managed to affect another structure that will develop over time.
Types of Curative Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer
On the other hand, depending on the region of the pancreas that the tumor has occupied, the surgeon selects the type of oncological surgery to be carried out. In this sense, the most frequent is the one that takes place in the head of the pancreas.
Whipple Procedure
After locating the tumor, this is the technique that is practiced when the cancer is located in the head of the pancreas.
In particular, it is a rather complex intervention; it must be performed by an experienced surgeon, in order to reduce any chance of complications and the risk of infection.
During this surgery, a cut is made in the abdomen to resection that portion of the pancreas (head); but also of the duodenum, duct and gallbladder, proximal lymph nodes and in some cases, even part of the stomach.
Finally, the end of the small intestine is reconnected to allow food to pass through; while the bile duct and pancreas are also connected to the intestine to recover their secretory function.
Distal pancreatectomy
Continuing with surgical alternatives; If the tumor is in the tail and even part of the body of the pancreas, a distal pancreatectomy may be applied.
In addition to removing these parts of the pancreas, the spleen is almost always removed as well; which will increase the risks of contracting bacterial infections in the future.
Even though it is possible to perform this procedure with successful results; Malignant tumors that are located in this area tend to spread very quickly.
Total pancreatectomy
Obviously, this is the least popular surgical option, because the side effects can outweigh the real advantages that this procedure offers.
For this reason, when removing the entire pancreas, gallbladder, small intestine, spleen and perhaps some other nearby tissue; Total pancreatectomy compromises the patient’s well-being in many ways.
Despite probably being the only curative alternative when pancreatic cancer occupies the entire organ; After recovery, the individual will not only develop diabetes, but will also have to consume pancreatic enzymes to process certain foods and apply insulin injections permanently.
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Risk factors
The main risk factors associated with curative surgery for pancreatic cancer include:
Extent of the cancer
If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, surgery may not be possible or effective in curing it completely.
Tumor size and location
The location of the tumor in the pancreas and its size may influence the possibility of curative surgery. Tumors located in the head of the pancreas are usually more treatable by surgery than malignant tumors in other parts of the organ.
Invasion of blood vessels
If the cancer has invaded important blood vessels near the pancreas, surgery may be more complicated and risky.
Overall Patient Health
Aspects such as age, general health, and the presence of other diseases can affect a patient's ability to undergo surgery and their subsequent recovery.
Surgeon Experience
As we have already mentioned, the experience and skill of the surgeon performing the surgery also play a significant role in the results and associated risk. Importantly, every case of pancreatic cancer is unique, and the decision to perform curative surgery is based on an individualized assessment of the risk factors and benefits for each patient. The cancer specialist is best able to assess the situation and provide specific recommendations.
Final comments
While pancreatic cancer, as we have already mentioned, is classified among the most aggressive; It is false to claim that there is no cure. However, its survival rate is indeed lower than other neoplasms.
Consequently, one of its greatest disadvantages is the absence of symptoms in its initial stage; which means that the approach in most cases is carried out late, when the cancer cells have advanced considerably.
However, by combining a correct diagnosis, good general conditions of the patient and the accurate application of the surgical technique; the chances of success increase.
Finally, it should be mentioned that after oncological surgery the patient must receive a complementary chemotherapy treatment; which will help eliminate any trace of cancer at a macro or microscopic level.
