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Need more information on NET in head of pancreas
Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (17)Comment receiving replies
@pamsbass
Hello, I am the wife of someone who was diagnosed 2 years ago with an NET on the pancreas head at 43yo. With small liver lesions as well with just watching it/then the last two years. It has now grown to 2.5cm and He’s being sent for more lab work and and a PET scan with follow up to talk about surgery. We were told in the beginning that if it grew to cause problems an needed surgery he would need a whipple. What made yours a modified whipple. I did some research two years ago but I’m anxious currently since the “news” is new again. Thinking we wouldn’t need surgery hopefully ever. Is there anything I should particularly remember to ask?
Replies to "@pamsbass Hello, I am the wife of someone who was diagnosed 2 years ago with an..."
@jchady01 Here is an explanation of the Whipple procedure:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/whipple-procedure/about/pac-20385054
I believe that the modified Whipple preserves the stomach. I have a PNET in the body and the tail of my pancreas, so I don't qualify for a Whipple. I also have lesions on my liver. Considering the Whipple does not address the liver, I would ask what the method of treating it would be. I am hoping others that have had the Whipple might share.
Hello @jchady01,.
I would like to join @colleenyoung and @tomrennie in welcoming you to the NETs support group. I see from your last sentence that you asked whether there is anything in particular you should ask about this procedure. This is a great question! Here are some suggestions: First, I would read the information @tomrennie provided about the Whipple procedure. Then make a list of questions that occur.
On Connect, we have a discussion group called: Keys to a Successful Doctor's Appointment
Here is the link to that conversation with a video:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/keys-to-a-successful-doctors-appointment/
In that discussion group, there is an article by a medical oncologist, Karthik Giridhar, M.D, who says the following: “ I love working with engaged patients. Patients that want to make sure that they're understanding why we're doing what we're recommending." Here is a link to her comment: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/1053073/
I would encourage you to familiarize yourself with the Whipple procedure by reading about it, so you feel ready to ask questions. Here is a link with posts by others in the NETs group who have had a Whipple; these posts might help you develop your list of questions. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/neuroendocrine-tumors-nets/
I hope that all goes well for your husband. Will you post again with any questions, concerns, or updates?
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@jchady01, welcome. I'm tagging @tomrennie on this discussion as he may have some thoughts and experiences to share with you.
How is your husband doing? Will he be scheduled for surgery?