Types Of Treatment For Pancreatic Cancer

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, you may be wondering what the best treatment options are available to you. However, it’s essential to note that the best treatment for you depends on various factors, including the stage of your cancer. Below, we’ve explained some common treatments that are the standard of care for pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic surgery

The primary goal of pancreatic cancer treatment is to eliminate cancer if possible, and this can sometimes be achieved through surgery. There are several available surgical procedures that can be used to treat pancreatic cancer, but the majority of these involves removing all or parts of the pancreas, depending on the size and location of the tumor. The surgery can also include the removal of other tissues and organs that surround the stomach region.

All surgeries for pancreatic cancer carry the risk of bleeding and infection, and patients should expect a long recovery time. It’s advisable to have your procedure done by a highly experienced surgeon for fewer complications.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a typical form of cancer treatment that helps to kill cancer cells. It’s normally used to control pancreatic cancer growth, relieve symptoms and prolong survival, particularly among patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

At times, your physician may recommend chemotherapy after surgery to minimize the chances of your cancer recurring.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. A physician directs the radiation to specific points on your body to treat your cancer. Normally, radiation therapy is combined with surgery, but your doctor can also recommend a combination of chemotherapy and radiation (chemoradiation), especially when your pancreatic cancer cannot be treated surgically.

There are various types of radiation treatments, ranging from traditional radiation therapy to proton beam therapy. It’s wise to speak with your doctor to understand what each involves and what approach they recommend.

Clinical trials

A clinical trial is a research or a study that tests a new approach to treatment, such as systematic therapy. Clinical trials can test anything from a new combination of standard treatments to new doses of standard drugs.

When making pancreatic cancer treatment plan decisions, you’re encouraged to consider clinical trials as a viable option. While they can’t guarantee a cure, they give you a chance to try new chemotherapy drugs, vaccines, immunotherapy treatments, and targeted therapy.

Choosing the right treatment

Before choosing your pancreatic cancer treatment, discuss your goals with your physician and know all your options at every stage of your disease. Don’t refrain from asking questions and strive to understand the side effects and risks of all treatments.

If you’re seeking expert help on pancreatic cancer treatment, contact the expert consultants at Birmingham HPB Clinic today.