Ablation of Non-malignant Pancreatic Cyst

Posted by rmrjr4550 @rmrjr4550, Apr 18 12:34pm

I have a pancreatic main duct IPMN, which has been under surveillance every four months using MRCP scans and EUS/FNA biopsy. Because of age (80) and co-morbidities I am not a good candidate for pancreatic surgery.

Rather than waiting for cancer to develope, I decided to research if there was any proactive approach, and read about ablation using radio or chemo therapy to treat non-malignant pancreatic cysts. Has anyone had experience with this procedure? I understand it is somewhat experimental. If you have, please tell me about your experience. Thanks.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Pancreatic Cancer Support Group.

jhf99 | @jhf99 | 7 hours ago

I'm a 75-yo man who was recently diagnosed with a Branch Duct-IPMN in the tail of the pancreas after an endoscopic ultrasound and a failed biopsy. The cyst is irregular and about 18mm and is composed of four chambers. The pancreatic duct is dilated 5-7mm. Endoscopic doctor recommended a repeat after 6 months. Getting a 2nd opinion from Mayo tomorrow via telephone. Interested in hearing your experiences with dealing with this at an early stage. I have no symptoms; the cyst was found by chance during a CT-scan of my colon due to having an severe attack of constipation, Colon was fine, and I finally had a bowel movement the next day.