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Need more information on NET in head of pancreas
Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) | Last Active: 3 days ago | Replies (21)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?
@pamsbass Hello,
I noticed your post. I’m in a similar situation, as I’ve recently been diagnosed with a lesion in the head of the pancreas. I’m still at the beginning of the diagnostic process and currently waiting for a biopsy.
I would like to ask about your experience regarding the course of your examinations and treatment so far. Did you eventually undergo surgery, or are you considering it? Or have you been placed on a different treatment plan?
I am also trying to understand all available options, as I would prefer to avoid surgery if possible, although I am aware that it is often considered the standard recommendation.
I would be grateful if you were willing to share any information with me. Thank you very much in advance.
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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?