Pancreatic Tumor Removal in Boulder, CO

When a tumor grows in the pancreas, it is not always cancerous (malignant). Some are benign and not likely to cause you harm or symptoms. However, when the tumor is showing precancerous signs, it has to be removed before the cancer cells metastasize (spread). In such a situation, Alpine Surgical can help you with pancreatic tumor removal in Boulder, CO

Evaluation and Treatment of Benign and Malignant Tumors

The pancreas produces enzymes from an exocrine cell. The majority of your pancreas is made up of exocrine cells. Endocrine cells make up only a small portion of the pancreas. These cells produce hormones such as insulin.

Around 20 different forms of tumors can occur in the pancreas. Pancreatic tumors originate in either exocrine or endocrine cells. Exocrine tumors account for more than 90% of all pancreatic tumors. These tumors frequently originate in the pancreatic ducts, which are tiny channels that transport digestive enzymes to the intestines.

At Alpine Surgical, pancreatic tumors are evaluated using imaging techniques such as CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds, as well as biopsies. Treatment methods differ depending on whether the tumor is benign or malignant, with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies employed for malignant tumors. If benign tumors create symptoms, they can be treated with monitoring, medication, or surgery.

The surgical removal of a pancreatic tumor is called pancreatectomy. A common method of removing a pancreatic tumor is called the Whipple Procedure. It involves removing the head of your pancreas, the first section of your small intestine, the gallbladder, a segment of your bile duct, and adjacent lymph nodes.

Benign Pancreatic Tumors

Not all pancreatic tumors are cancerous. Some are benign fluid-filled growths that are unlikely to cause any symptoms. Our team focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cysts. These cysts are not cancerous, but they should be monitored closely over time for indicators of cancer.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Tumors

Unlike benign tumors, cancerous pancreatic tumors show symptoms that help detect their presence. These symptoms include the following:

• Abdominal pain: One of the most prevalent symptoms is upper abdominal pain that might spread to the back.

• Weight loss: Unexplained or unintended weight loss is a common symptom, particularly when combined with a loss of appetite.

• Jaundice: This is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes that is commonly caused by a bile duct blockage.

• Bowel habits: If the tumor interferes with the digestive process, it may cause light-colored or foul-smelling stools, as well as diarrhea.

• New or worsening diabetes: Pancreatic tumors can disrupt insulin production, resulting in new diabetes or making current diabetes more difficult to control.

Pancreatic Tumor Removal at Alpine Surgical

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is best to see us at Alpine Surgical to properly diagnose your condition. We also provide pancreatic tumor removal in Boulder, CO, should the tumor prove to be cancerous. Contact our office to learn more about pancreatic tumor surgery.