Pancreatic Cancer: Early Detection, Diagnosis & Advanced Surgical Treatment

Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive cancer of the pancreas, often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to its subtle symptoms. With a multidisciplinary and timely approach, selected cases can benefit from curative surgery and long-term survival.

If you're looking for a trusted expert in pancreatic cancer treatment in Ahmedabad, Dr. Maunil Tomar, a specialized GI & HPB cancer surgeon, provides advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgery, and precision cancer care with personalized support.

🧬 What Is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer usually starts in the exocrine cells of the pancreas that produce digestive enzymes. The most common type is Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Tumors can arise in the head, body, or tail of the pancreas.

It is known for silent progression and poor prognosis if not diagnosed early, making awareness and timely consultation vital.

⚠️ Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer

• Smoking

• Chronic pancreatitis

• Family history of pancreatic or GI cancers

• Diabetes mellitus (especially newly diagnosed)

• Genetic syndromes (BRCA, Lynch, FAMMM)

• Obesity

• High-fat or processed food diet

🚨 Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Symptoms may vary by tumor location but often include:

• Jaundice (yellow eyes/skin)

• Upper abdominal or back pain

• Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss

• Nausea and bloating

• New-onset diabetes

• Fatigue

• Pale stools or dark urine

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially jaundice with weight loss, consult a pancreatic cancer specialist in Ahmedabad promptly.

🔬 Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer

• Ultrasound & Contrast-Enhanced CT Scan

• MRI / MRCP – For bile and pancreatic duct evaluation

• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) – For small tumor detection and biopsy

• CA 19-9 Tumor Marker – Used in diagnosis and monitoring

• PET-CT – For assessing metastasis

Dr. Maunil Tomar utilizes high-resolution imaging and advanced endoscopic techniques for accurate staging and surgical planning.

🛠️ Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer

🏥 1. Surgery (Curative for Resectable Cases)

• Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) – For tumors in the head of the pancreas

• Distal Pancreatectomy – For tumors in the body/tail

• Total Pancreatectomy – In selected cases

• Laparoscopic or Robotic Pancreatic Surgery – Minimally invasive options

💊 2. Chemotherapy

• Used post-surgery (adjuvant), before surgery (neoadjuvant), or in unresectable cases

• Regimens include FOLFIRINOX, Gemcitabine + Nab-Paclitaxel

💉 3. Palliative Care

• Biliary stenting

• Pain management

• Nutritional support and enzyme supplementation

📅 When Should You See a Specialist?

• New-onset jaundice or abdominal pain

• Rapid weight loss and fatigue

• Strong family history of GI cancers

• Unexplained change in blood sugar levels

Early diagnosis makes a significant difference. Timely consultation with a pancreatic cancer surgeon in Ahmedabad can lead to better outcomes and survival.