What structures are removed in a partial pancreatectomy?
During this operation, the surgeon removes the head of the pancreas and sometimes the body of the pancreas as well. Nearby structures such as part of the small intestine, part of the bile duct, the gallbladder, lymph nodes near the pancreas, and sometimes part of the stomach are also removed.
What happens after partial pancreas removal?
The tail of the pancreas lie directly behind the stomach and the trauma from the surgical procedure will result in inflammation along the back of the stomach where the removed portion of the pancreas had been. This inflammation will cause temporary stomach dysfunction for a period of time in most patients.
Why is splenectomy performed with distal pancreatectomy?
Why is a spleen removed in distal pancreatectomy? A spleen may be removed during the surgery because the artery supplying the spleen lies along the body and tail of the pancreas. Because of this, the blood vessel can get blocked, and infection or tumor can spread to the spleen.
What can I expect after my distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy?
You will not be able to eat regular food for at least two to three days after surgery. Your care team will slowly start you on clear fluids and then to other fluids and foods as you recover. You will be able to slowly resume activity a day after surgery and can take a shower within two days after surgery.
Can you live with a partial pancreas?
Yes, you can live without a pancreas. You’ll need to make a few adjustments to your life, though. Your pancreas makes substances that control your blood sugar and help your body digest foods.
What are the side effects of a pancreatectomy?
Because the pancreas serves a major metabolic purpose, removing portions of it through pancreatectomy may lead to complications. These include postoperative pain, bleeding, infection and blood clots, as well as bile leakage and digestive issues.
Can a person live with half a pancreas?
Yes, you can live without a pancreas. You’ll need to make a few adjustments to your life, though. Your pancreas makes substances that control your blood sugar and help your body digest foods. After surgery, you’ll have to take medicines to handle these functions.
How long can you live after a pancreatectomy?
With a median follow-up length of 23 months, 33 patients were alive at last follow-up. Estimated overall survival at 1, 2 and 3 years for the entire cohort was 80%, 72% and 65%, and for those with pancreatic adenocarcinoma was 63%, 43% and 34%, respectively.