Pancreatectomy (Removal of the Pancreas)

A pancreatectomy is surgery to remove all or a portion of your pancreas. Your doctor may recommend it if you have pancreatic cancer or severe and chronic pancreatitis.

This could require certain lifestyle adjustments during your recovery.

In the case of a total pancreatectomy, these changes may be more pronounced and have a longer-lasting impact.

But your UPMC Hillman Cancer Center surgical team will work with you to get you back to your normal life.

To learn more about pancreatic cancer care at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center or schedule a visit, call 412-647-2811. Or fill out our pancreatic cancer contact form.

What Is a Pancreatectomy?

A pancreatectomy is when a surgeon removes part of or all of the pancreas.

The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach, and it serves two crucial functions:

  • Producing enzymes, which are essential for digesting food.
  • Secreting hormones, including insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Are There Different Types of Pancreas Removal Surgery?

Yes. At UPMC Hillman, we offer various types of pancreatectomy surgeries to address specific medical needs.

Pancreatectomy Surgery FAQ

Is pancreatectomy a major surgery?

Removing any organ is a major surgery.

Pancreas removal requires surgeons with special training and expertise.

Can a person live without a pancreas?

Yes.

You can live without a pancreas, but you'll need to:

  • Make some lifestyle changes.
  • Take medications to help with digestion and glucose control.
  • Get insulin shots since your body can no longer make enough.

Pancreatectomy Benefits and Risks

Doctors will only suggest a total pancreatectomy if you have a serious illness. Like any other major surgery, it has benefits and risks.

What's the main complication of a pancreatectomy?

The pancreas plays a crucial role in making insulin and digestive enzymes in the body.

After removing it, there's a chance of developing diabetes or pancreatic insufficiency. Symptoms of pancreatic insufficiency include weight loss and diarrhea.

Without a working pancreas, you'll rely on lifelong insulin and digestive enzyme supplements to effectively manage your health.

Conditions We Treat with Pancreatectomies

We use surgery to treat pancreatic cancer and severe pancreatitis.

Pancreatic cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the pancreas. Cancer may stay in the pancreas, or it may spread. You may not have symptoms until it has spread to other organs.

Pancreatitis is a long-term (chronic) inflammation of the pancreas. It can cause extreme pain and the inability to digest food.

Common causes include:

  • An infection.
  • An injury.
  • Gallstones.
  • Heavy alcohol use.

Your doctor may suggest surgery if you have chronic pancreatitis that hasn't improved with other treatments.

What to Expect Before, During, and After a Pancreatectomy

Your doctor will go over what to expect from your procedure.

Here's an overview.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Pancreatectomy?

You will probably stay in the hospital for six to 10 days after surgery, barring any problems. Your recovery will then take place at home.

Healing from pancreas removal surgery will take at least a month or two.

Recovery time depends on:

  • How complex the surgery was.
  • If any complications develop.
  • Whether you have other health issues.

Throughout your recovery, it's crucial to have regular follow-up appointments with your doctor. They may need to adjust your medications over time to ensure your ongoing health and well-being.

Your care team will provide guidance and support as you progress through the post-op healing process.

Contact Us About Pancreatic Cancer Care

To learn more about pancreatic cancer care or to make an appointment, you can: