Pancreas

Pancreatic cancer, including cancers of the hepatobiliary (HPB) system (which includes the liver and bile ducts), often requires surgery as part of its treatment plan. The type of surgery performed depends on various factors, including the location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Here are some common surgical options for pancreatic and HPB cancers:

• Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple Procedure): This is the most common surgery for cancers located in the head of the pancreas, ampulla of Vater, or periampullary region. During the Whipple procedure, the surgeon removes the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), the gallbladder, the bile duct, and sometimes a portion of the stomach. The remaining structures are then reconstructed to restore the flow of bile and digestive juices.
• Distal Pancreatectomy: This surgery involves removing the tail and sometimes part of the body of the pancreas. It is typically performed for cancers located in the body or tail of the pancreas.
• Total Pancreatectomy: In rare cases where the cancer involves the entire pancreas, a total pancreatectomy may be performed. This surgery involves removing the entire pancreas, as well as the spleen and portions of the stomach, small intestine, and bile duct.
• Liver Resection (Hepatectomy): If the cancer has spread to the liver, surgery to remove part of the liver (liver resection or hepatectomy) may be performed. The extent of liver resection depends on the size, location, and number of tumors.
• Bile Duct Resection (Hepatectomy with Bile Duct Resection): For cancers involving the bile ducts (cholangiocarcinoma), surgical resection of the affected bile duct segment along with nearby liver tissue and lymph nodes may be performed.
• Palliative Surgery: In cases where the cancer is advanced and cannot be completely removed, palliative surgery may be performed to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. This may involve procedures such as placing stents to keep bile ducts or the duodenum open and alleviate blockages caused by the tumor.