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Surgical removal of pancreatic body and tail for cancer or chronic pancreatitis. Spleen preservation attempted when possible. Excellent pain relief in chronic pancreatitis with low morbidity.
Mobilization of pancreatic tail. Division of splenic vessels (spleen-preserving technique preferred). Transection of pancreas with hemostasis. Specimen extraction.
Hospital stay 5-7 days. Pain relief excellent in CP. Requires lifelong pancreatic enzyme supplementation and diabetes management. Full recovery 8-12 weeks.
Distal pancreatectomy is an operation to remove the body and tail of the pancreas, the part that lies on the left side of the abdomen. The spleen is often removed at the same time because it shares blood vessels with the pancreatic tail, though in some cases it can be preserved.
Under general anaesthesia, the surgeon divides the pancreas and removes the affected part. The cut end of the remaining pancreas is closed with staples or stitches. The operation is often performed by laparoscopic or robotic surgery, which may mean smaller scars and faster recovery; an open operation is used when needed. It usually takes three to five hours.
The spleen helps fight certain infections. If it is removed, you will be given vaccines against pneumococcus, meningococcus and Haemophilus influenzae, ideally two weeks before or after surgery, and advised to seek prompt treatment for fever. Some patients are advised preventive antibiotics.
The most common complication is a leak of pancreatic fluid from the cut edge (pancreatic fistula), which usually settles with drainage. Other risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, diabetes and enzyme deficiency.
Some patients do, especially if they already had borderline blood sugar or if a large part of the pancreas is removed. Your doctors will monitor it.
Yes. It involves fewer joins, so recovery is generally easier than after a Whipple operation.
That depends on the final pathology report. Patients with cancer may be advised chemotherapy.
Book a consultation: call 0522-666-4444 or use the request call back form on this page. In an emergency, come straight to the 24/7 emergency department at Charak Hospital, Hardoi Road, Dubagga, Lucknow.