Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Delhi

Overview

Pancreatic cancer is a disorder in which healthy pancreatic cells malfunction and spread abnormally. These cancerous cells gradually grow in numbers , initially invading the local and adjacent tissues and organs and later spreading (metastasize) to other areas of the body.

This form of cancer is seldom detected in its early stages, when it is most treatable. This is because symptoms don’t commonly appear until the disease has progressed locally or to other organs.

Treatment options for pancreatic cancer are determined by the extent of the disease. Pancreatic cancer treatment in Delhi includes chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or a combination of these.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer

The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Some common symptoms include:

  • Pain in the upper abdomen or back
  • Weight loss
  • Loss of appetite
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal distension or fluid accumulation in tummy 

It is important to note that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so one must see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

The exact causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood, but several known risk factors may increase a person’s chance of developing the disease. Some of these risk factors include:

  • Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in people over the age of 60.
  • Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products is a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
  • Family history: People with a family history of pancreatic cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease.
  • Certain medical conditions: People with genetic disorder such as Lynch syndrome or BRCA gene mutation are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
  • Obesity: Obesity can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
  • Certain chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides and certain industrial chemicals, may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Stages of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is typically divided into four stages, with stage I being the earliest and least advanced stage and stage IV being the most advanced. The stages are based on the size and location of the tumor, as well as whether or not cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.

  • Stage I: The cancer is confined to the pancreas and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs. Pancreatic cancer can be cured with surgery if identified at this stage.
  • Stage II: The cancer has grown larger and may have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted drug therapies.
  • Stage III: Cancer has spread to major blood vessels or other organs near the pancreas, such as the stomach, duodenum, or bile duct. However, stage 3 pancreatic cancer is challenging to treat, use of multimodality therapy with a combination of chemotherapy and / or radiation with surgery can cure cancer in even this stage. Pancreatic cancer treatment in Delhi options includes anticancer drugs, surgery, and radiation therapy.
  • Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or peritoneum. Pancreatic cancer at stage 4 cannot be cured, although treatments can lessen symptoms and reduce the disease’s side effects.

It’s important to note that different pancreatic cancer treatment options are available depending on the stage of the disorder, early stages have better chances of treatment and recovery.

Treatment of pancreatic cancer 

Pancreatic cancer treatment in Delhi includes surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Pancreatic cancer cure is possible if detected at an early stage.

Pancreatic cancer surgery is the most common treatment for pancreatic cancer and may involve removing part or all of the pancreas. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, and chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. 

In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used. Advanced stages of pancreatic cancer may require palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Surgery

Several types of pancreatic cancer surgery are performed based on the goal of the surgery.

Laparoscopy 

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer. During the procedure, a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera on the end) is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen to visualize the pancreas and surrounding organs. 

The laparoscope allows the surgeon to see inside the abdomen without having to make a large incision. This can result in less pain and a quicker recovery for the patient. During this procedure, the surgeon will be able to assess whether the cancer has progressed to other areas of the abdomen.

Laparoscopic surgery for pancreatic cancer may be used to remove small tumors, but larger tumors may require open surgery. It is important to consult with a specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your condition.

Surgery to remove pancreatic cancer

Different pancreatic surgery types are used based on the location of the tumor in the pancreas. All of the surgeries outlined here include the removal of nearby lymph nodes.

Whipple procedure 

The Whipple procedure, also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy, is a major pancreas surgery in Delhi, used to remove tumors in the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum), and other nearby tissues. The procedure involves removing the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, the bile duct, and a portion of the stomach. The remaining pancreas, bile duct, and stomach are then reconnected to allow for normal digestion. 

The Whipple procedure is a complex and challenging operation that is typically only performed by experienced surgeons in specialized centers. Recovery from the procedure can take several months and may involve a significant lifestyle change. It is important to consult with a specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your condition.

Distal pancreatectomy

A distal pancreatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tail and body of the pancreas, along with the spleen. The procedure is typically done to remove tumors or cysts in the distal pancreas. The procedure can be done through an open incision (open distal pancreatectomy) or through a laparoscope (laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy) or robotically ( robotic distal pancreatectomy )

Open surgery typically involves a larger incision and a longer recovery time, while laparoscopic and robotic surgery involves smaller incisions and a shorter recovery time. The procedure may also involve removing the spleen.

After the surgery, the patient will be closely monitored for any complications such as bleeding, infection, or blood clots. Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the patient’s overall health. 

Total pancreatectomy

A total pancreatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the entire pancreas. The procedure is typically done to remove tumors or cysts in the pancreas that are not able to be treated with other methods. When all other treatments have failed, the procedure is used.

Palliative procedures and supportive surgery are commonly indicated to help relieve symptoms that impair a patient’s quality of life. Palliative therapies and surgeries may also include stent placements, bypass surgery, and nerve blocks to treat jaundice, vomiting, nausea, and tumor-related pain.

Aftercare

After pancreatic surgery in Delhi, you will be required to stay in the hospital. The length of your hospital stay may depend on the type of surgery you have undergone, but it may range from a few days to a few weeks or more. It will also carry a plan for at-home rest and healing. 

At-home rest may last a month or more, with complete recovery taking around two months. Your medical team will work with you on your pre-surgical preparations and post-surgery recovery plans, which will include important exercise, mindfulness, and nutritional and dietary recommendations.

Cost of pancreatic surgery

Pancreatic cancer treatment in Delhi is based on its severity and stages. Pancreas surgery cost is determined by the stage, type, surgical treatment, and medical problems of the patient. However, pancreatic surgery costs in India may vary based on the hospital and city.

Why choose Dr. Asit Arora for pancreatic cancer treatment in Delhi

Dr. Asit Arora is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon who is respected for his ability to provide top-quality care to his patients. With over 15 years of experience in the field of surgery, Dr. Arora has established himself as an expert in his field and has a reputation for being an astute clinician who can provide the highest level of care to his patients.

One of Dr. Arora’s greatest strengths is his ability to treat patients with compassion and understanding. He takes the time to listen to his patients and is dedicated to ensuring that they are comfortable and well-informed throughout the surgical process.

In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Arora is also an accomplished researcher and has made significant contributions to the field of medicine through his research. He has published more than 50 articles in peer-reviewed journals and has made numerous presentations at scientific forums around the globe. He has also authored important chapters in prominent medical textbooks and is a leading and sought-after speaker at conferences both within and outside India.

Overall, Dr. Asit Arora is an outstanding physician and surgeon who is dedicated to providing the best possible care to his patients. With his extensive experience, expertise, compassion, and research background, he is well-suited to provide the best treatment options and outcomes for those with pancreatic cancer.

What is liver cancer?

Liver cancer is a life-threatening condition that starts in the liver when the hepatocytes or cholangiocytes (liver cells) begin to grow out of control. The treatment and prognosis of these tumours vary based on their different causes.

What are the types of liver cancer?

There are two types of liver cancer:

  1. Primary liver cancer: Liver cancer is commonly known as hepatocellular cancer. Primary liver cancer develops in the liver’s cells, blood vessels, bile ducts, or connective tissue.
  2. Secondary liver cancer – If it originates in another part of the body and spreads to the liver, it is also known as metastatic liver cancer.

Liver cancer specialists perform tests to diagnose the disease and begin treatment. If a person falls under the high-risk category for developing liver cancer, they are advised to undergo regular screening tests to detect cancer at its inception.

Causes and risk factors for liver cancer

A person feels liver cancer pain when liver cells develop changes in their DNA. A cell’s DNA is the material that offers instructions for every chemical process in your body, and these DNA mutations cause changes in these instructions, and as a result, they start growing uncontrollably and form a tumour. Several causes contribute to liver cancer:

  • Cirrhosis
  • Hepatitis B infection
  • Diabetes 
  • Obesity
  • Family history
  • Alcohol abuse and smoking
  • Prolonged use of anabolic steroids
  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
  • Some inherited liver diseases, like Wilson’s disease
  • Herbicides
  • Chemicals such as arsenic and vinyl chloride

Secondary liver cancer is most common in those who have cancers of the large intestine (colon), stomach, pancreas, breast, or lung. It is critical to understand where cancer began since this will define the type of cells that are producing the disease and which treatment option is most suitable for you. 

What are the symptoms?

When liver cancer is in its early stages, a person might have no symptoms, which typically leads to a delay in diagnosis. When patients develop symptoms, they are often so mild that they are neglected. However, patients may experience some symptoms when the swelling in the liver develops. Some symptoms of liver cancer include:

  • Enlarged liver
  • Upper abdominal pain 
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Swelling or fluid buildup in the abdominal area
  • Jaundice
  • Nausea
  • Chalky stools
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Lump in the abdomen

You should make an appointment with the best liver cancer surgeon in Delhi, NCR, if you experience any of the above-listed signs and symptoms that worry you.

Different stages of liver cancer

After a person’s liver cancer is diagnosed, doctors will try to figure out to what extent it has spread. This process is called staging. The stages of liver cancer describe how much cancer is in the body and help determine how severe the condition is and what the best treatment is for it.

Liver cancer stages range from stage 1 to stage 4, and the lower the number, the less cancer has spread.

  • Stage 1: The first stage of liver cancer is when a tumour develops within the liver and its effects are localised and have not spread.
  • Stage 2: In the second stage of liver cancer, the tumour grows in dimension, reaching a size of 5 cm across, and there is a chance of developing small tumours. However, the spread is still localised.
  • Stage 3: This stage is divided into A, B, and C and is classified by the outgrowth of the tumour.
  • Stage 4: It is the last stage of liver cancer, and the size and number of tumours in the liver grow dramatically. The stage also marks the spread of the tumour into lymph nodes, blood vessels, and many surrounding organs. The fourth stage is also divided into A and B.

Liver cancer treatment

Treatment options for liver cancer depend on the stage of the disease, liver function, and the patient’s overall health. Patients should communicate with their doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment options for their particular needs.

If your cancer is in its early stages and the remaining part of your liver is healthy, a surgical procedure (partial hepatectomy) may heal you. If your cancer is in its early stages but the remaining part of your liver is not functioning properly, you may need to be treated with a liver transplant. 

In cases where the liver tumour is in a difficult-to-remove area (for example, very close to a main blood vessel), a transplant may potentially be a solution. Inoperable cancers are those that have not yet progressed to distant areas of the body or lymph nodes but cannot be safely removed with a partial hepatectomy. Treatment options include embolisation, ablation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy. For these cancers, treatment may reduce the size of the tumour(s) enough to enable surgery.

The advanced stage of liver cancer has progressed to the lymph nodes and/or other organs. Since these tumours are so widespread, surgery cannot be used to remove them.

Liver cancer surgery

There are two main types of liver cancer surgery:

  • Partial hepatectomy: This includes removing only a portion of the liver along with the tumour and some healthy tissue surrounding the tumour. MRI, CT, and other imaging tests are initially conducted to determine whether or not the tumour can be entirely removed.
  • Liver transplant: During this surgery, the liver is totally removed and replaced with a new, healthy one. This helps in the restoration of liver function and minimises the probability of cancer recurrence. Patients with liver cirrhosis and tumours, as well as large liver tumours, are candidates for liver transplantation. Transplants can be received from a close family member (a portion of the liver is taken) or from deceased donors for surgery.

Other treatment options 

The following approaches are commonly used in the treatment of liver cancer in Delhi:

  • Surgery for small lesions
  • Ablation, which includes the destruction of tumours without their removal.
  • Embolization, which involves cutting off blood flow to the tumour cells in the liver.
  • Targeted therapy, which involves the introduction of medicines into the bloodstream. 
  • Immunotherapy, which includes delivering medication intravenously to help the body identify and destroy cancer cells.

If your liver cancer is advanced, treatment may take some time. However, doctors will treat and limit cancer and its symptoms, helping you to live longer with fewer complications.

Liver cancer treatment cost and survival rates

Liver cancer treatment cost depends on many factors, for example, consultation costs, medication cost, hospital choice, hospitalisation period, diagnosis procedure, room and stay charges, fees of the medical team, the experience of the doctor, additional medical tests (if required), and post-surgery follow-up care costs.

Survival rates are commonly used to determine how many patients with a specific stage of liver cancer are alive five years after treatments. Liver cancer survival rates are good if it is diagnosed and treated at an early stage. 

Thus, it is vital to contact your doctor as soon as you observe any of the symptoms of liver cancer, or else you are at increased risk of developing cancer. An early liver cancer diagnosis helps you get treatment early and stops the cancer from spreading.

Followup care 

The physician providing liver cancer treatment in Delhi will perform routine medical check-ups to determine whether the disease has resurfaced. The concerned doctor may perform a series of medical tests, physical examinations, or combined approaches as follow-up care. 

The physician will also look for any side effects of the procedure. Let your doctor know about any changes you see in your body after treatment so that an appropriate follow-up care plan may be created. 

Why choose India for liver cancer surgery?

Liver cancer treatment cost in India is quite affordable, and many Indian hospitals have adopted advanced methodologies for radiation therapy. Surgical departments are well equipped to provide minimally invasive procedures, which reduce recovery time and pain and have many other benefits for patients. 

Why choose Dr. Asit Arora for liver cancer surgery?

Dr. Asit Arora is one of the best doctors for liver cancer surgery in Delhi and is currently working as a Director and head of the Division of GI & HPB Oncology at Max Super Speciality Hospital Saket, Gurugram, and Max Smart. He is among the top doctors in India, and his area of expertise includes HPB cancer surgery, Advanced laparoscopic surgery, and Gastrointestinal Oncosurgery. In the 2022 ET Healthcare Awards, he was awarded Oncosurgeon of the Year for his attempts to provide the best treatment to patients in this field of cancer care.