Urgency of surgery

ahmedf · New User Joined: 10 Jun 2009 Posts: 7

Hi there,

My mom was diagnosed with a tumor on the mouth of her pancreas a few days ago. The tumor is contricting an artery and a vein.

The biopsy is scheduled for tomorrow, where they will be able to tell whether the tumor is benign or malignant. We don't know yet. The CT scan did not reveal any tumors on other organs, so I'm hopeful.

The problem is that she lives in India, while I am here in the US. I definitely want to be with my family through these tough times, but the timing of it all is unfortunate. I have my wedding in a week and a half Sad

.

Now, my question is regarding the urgency of surgery if the diagnosis is that the tumor is malignant? Also, what if it's benign? Do doctors usually take the time to do more tests before the surgery or do they require it ASAP? That will determine whether I need to cancel the wedding or if I can convince my parents to push the surgery a week so that I can be there.

Also, how are the risks for a Whipple procedure? Is it the surgery that's mostly risky, or is it the post-op?

Thanks!

ethan20 · Regular Joined: 12 Jan 2009 Posts: 25

Hi, sorry to hear about your mom. That's a very good sign that they didn't see any other metastatic tumors. If the pancreatic tumor invades the mesenteric vein, surgery usually isn't an option. If they tell you this, look into the cyberknife. This isn't a cure, but it is a fast non invasive treatment that can be done. They may recommend chemo first, like Gemzar in combo with Tarceva or some other booster. Work fast this is a terrible cancer and has to be treated fast and aggressively. Diet, vit C, herbs (Triphala), and supplements should be considered. Many oncologists don't think much of them, but I would try it all. Basic chemo alone does not have a good outcome and does not work very long. I wish you the best and your mom is in my prayers.

ahmedf · New User Joined: 10 Jun 2009 Posts: 7

Thank you so much for the information Ethan.

My mother has an appointment with the surgeon tomorrow to discuss the resectability of the tumor. Following that, we will consider options such as the CyberKnife treatment or chemotherapy/radiation alone if surgery is not possible (which seems likely Sad

).

What kind of diet do people recommend? Also, besides the two supplements, what else should I look into?

I will be traveling to be with her in a week, so I wanted to get whatever I need from here before I leave.

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