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Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
Pancreatic cancer can cause severe pain in the upper abdomen, unexpected weight loss, jaundice, loss of appetite, gas, bloating and other issues. Among the many factors known to be causing pancreatic cancer, the prominent ones are smoking, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, and obesity.
For expert diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer, consult with the top GI Oncologists at the CK Birla Hospital.
Pancreatic Cancer
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer forms in the tissues of the pancreas. The cells in the pancreas mutate abnormally forming a tumour. Early-stage pancreatic cancers are asymptomatic and usually don’t show up on imaging tests thus necessitating the need for early action when mild symptoms start to occur to prevent complications.
What are the Types of Pancreatic Cancer?
Endocrine Tumour: This type of cancer develops in the cells lining the pancreas.
Neuroendocrine Tumors: Develop on the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas.
What are the Types of Pancreatic Cancer Treatment?
- Pancreatectomy: This invasive process involves removing the entire pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and part of the stomach.
- Pancreatectomy: Treatment through drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy the cancer cells. It is also combined with other treatment methods.
- Targeted Therapy: Treatment involves targeting specific proteins and blocking them from fueling cancer growth.
What is the Average Cost of Various Pancreatic Cancer Treatments?
- Pancreatectomy: Costs around ₹3,00,000 to ₹5,50,000
- Radiation Therapy: Averages around ₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000
- Targeted Therapy: Priced between ₹2,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 per cycle
These are approximate costs and can vary based on hospital facilities, location, and additional treatments required.
Any Complications Associated with Untreated Pancreatic Cancer:
- Digestive Issues: The tumour might affect the digestive tract leading to nausea, vomiting, malnutrition, etc.
- Metastasis: Untreated cancer may over time start to spread to the nearby organs like the liver, lungs, peritoneum, and bones.
- Jaundice: The growing tumour may block the bile duct leading to bile duct buildup and resulting in yellowing of the skin.
- Severe Pain: The tumour might start to press the nearby nerves leading to persistent pain.
- Diabetes: Growing cancer can affect the insulin function of the pancreas leading to an increased risk of developing diabetes.
Meet Our Top GI Oncologist
Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer:
- PET Scan: To detect cancerous cells using radioactive tracers.
- CT Scan: Assists with the creation of cross-sectional images to detect tumours.
- Biopsy: Analysis to ascertain the cancer, its type, and stage.
- Endoscopic Ultrasound: Helps create detailed images of the pancreas for further treatment.
Pre-Treatment/Surgery Instructions
- Complete all the necessary tests and assessments.
- Avoid eating or drinking for 6-8 hours before the surgery/treatment.
- Arrange for someone to assist you post-surgery.
- Follow the doctor’s instructions for medication.
- Stop smoking 2-4 weeks before the surgery/treatment.
Post-Treatment/Surgery Instructions
- The patient will be observed for a few hours post-surgery.
- Take prescribed pain relievers as directed.
- Start with a liquid diet and slowly move to soft foods.
- Keep the surgical site clean and dry, also follow the dressing change instruction.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities.
Recovery After Pancreatic Cancer Treatment:
Post pancreatic cancer treatment, the recovery depends on the type of treatment or surgery performed. Generally, patients can expect:Initial recovery takes 6-12 weeks for surgery.
Full recovery may take anywhere from 3-6 months.
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FAQs Around Pancreatic Cancer
What causes pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer can be caused by smoking, obesity, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, etc.
What is pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer forms in the tissues of the pancreas. The cells in the pancreas mutate abnormally forming a tumour.
Is pancreatic cancer curable?
Yes, pancreatic cancer is curable if detected and treated in the early stage.
How to diagnose pancreatic cancer early?
Pancreatic cancer can be detected early with regular blood tests and imaging tests. Additionally, keeping note of the symptoms and signs also can help diagnose cancer early.
How do you detect pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer can be detected through imaging tests like CT scan, PET scan, biopsy, ultrasound, etc.