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Pancreatic Cancer Group: Introduce yourself and connect with others
Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: 7 hours ago | Replies (1375)Comment receiving replies
My wife is 70 years of age and was diagnosed with stage 3 pancreatic cancer in Oct 2023. Since she has undergone 4 months of FOLFIRINOX. Following this treatment she was moved to GEMCITABINE. However, treatment was stopped after two sessions due to a severe allergic reaction. She stared 3 weeks chemo/radiation this week. The tumor is at the head of the pancreas and has encased several blood vessels. Surgery is beyond Whipple, requiring the complete removal of pancreas, along with spleen, gallbladder, etc. most recent scans have shown a shrinking tumor, reduced avidity and normal blood markers. Question: Given the complexity and recovery challenges of surgery, is it common for patients in this situation to opt out of surgery? If so, what are the alternatives to consider?
Replies to "My wife is 70 years of age and was diagnosed with stage 3 pancreatic cancer in..."
@drhmch, I'm sorry to hear that chemo has been a challenge with unanticipated complications. For some patients, surgery is not possible and some patients choose not to have surgery due to the reasons you've stated.
I think you might appreciate joining this related discussion in the pancreatic cancer support group:
- Decided not to have surgery. What’s next?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/whats-next-5/
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@drmch
Have you spoken to more than one surgeon?
More than one oncologist?
Everyone’s case is different, but there are more than two chemo concoctions now and many undergo this surgery once chemo has shrunk tumors and in many cases caused necrosis in areas. Once it is in your blood stream you must stabilize the situation prior to surgery.
I am a 29 month stage IV survivor. I have gall bladder, spleen, two major nodes of my liver and portion of my pancreas removed. This only occurred once the chemo had things “under control”. Please schedule for more than one opinion. I consult with various physicians across the country and learn something new from each.
May God give you wisdom and faith to help your wife fight!