Performed by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Pancreatic cancer surgery involves removing part or all of the pancreas affected by cancer, along with surrounding tissue when necessary. The type of operation depends on the tumour's location, size and whether it has spread. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy evaluates each case individually to determine if surgery is suitable and which approach may be safest.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
A cut is made in the upper abdomen to reach the pancreas and surrounding organs. The surgeon examines the area to confirm the tumour can be removed safely.
Depending on location, part of the pancreas is removed. This may include the head (Whipple procedure), the tail, or other segments. Nearby lymph nodes and tissue are often removed as well.
If the head of the pancreas is removed, the remaining pancreas, bile duct and stomach are reconnected to the intestine using careful surgical joins.
Small tubes are placed near the surgical area to drain fluid during early healing. These are removed once drainage decreases.
The abdomen is closed in layers with stitches or staples. The operation typically takes several hours depending on complexity.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy reviews all imaging and test results to map the tumour, blood vessels and surrounding anatomy, planning the safest surgical route.
Surgery is planned with input from medical oncology, radiology and anaesthesia teams to address all aspects of care before and after the operation.
During the procedure, meticulous dissection protects vital blood vessels and ensures complete removal of affected tissue while preserving healthy organ function where possible.
After surgery, close observation in hospital allows early detection and management of any complications, with gradual return to eating and mobility as healing progresses.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The first week involves monitoring for complications, managing pain, and gradually restarting fluids and soft foods. Drains and tubes are removed as healing allows. Timelines vary depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing.
After discharge, energy and appetite return slowly over 6-12 weeks. Enzyme supplements and blood sugar monitoring may be needed. Follow-up appointments check wound healing and digestive function.
Most people adjust to digestive changes within a few months. Ongoing care may include nutrition support, diabetes management and further cancer treatment depending on pathology results. Individual recovery paths differ.
Surgery aims to remove all visible cancer and may offer the best chance for longer-term survival when combined with other treatments. However, microscopic cancer cells may remain despite surgery, and cure cannot be guaranteed.
Removing the tumour can ease pain, jaundice or digestive blockage caused by the cancer. Surgery does not reverse all effects of advanced disease or prevent recurrence.
After surgery, the remaining pancreas may not produce enough enzymes or insulin, requiring lifelong supplements or diabetes treatment. These changes are managed with medication but are not reversible.
Most people require chemotherapy after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer returning. Surgery is one part of a treatment plan, not a standalone cure.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
If the cancer has spread or the tumour cannot be safely removed, chemotherapy may be the main treatment to slow growth and manage symptoms. This approach is chosen when surgery would carry too much risk or would not change outcomes.
Operations to relieve blockages (such as bile duct stenting or gastric bypass) may be considered instead of cancer removal if the goal is symptom relief rather than cure. These are chosen based on cancer stage and patient priorities.
For very small, slow-growing or borderline tumours, some patients and doctors may choose careful observation with repeated scans before committing to surgery. This is rare and depends on individual circumstances and tumour behaviour.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about pancreatic cancer surgery.
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