I would think that a second opinion from a major neuroendocrine multidisciplinary medical center is never wrong. I also had a distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy in Feb 2017. I had a small cancer on the tail and have just had a recurrence. I think at 81 that is wonderful, I have appreciated the nine years. I have been on Creon to help with pancreatic enzyme insufficiency. For now I am on a monthly Lanreotide injection. Good Luck.

Thank you for your comment and best of luck to you also.

Hi @poppett - You may notice that I moved your post and combined it with this existing discussion on IPMN, because I thought it might be beneficial for you to be introduced to members who have discussed the same:

- Possibly an intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/ipmn

If you are replying by email, click on VIEW & REPLY so that you can read through some of the earlier messages and meet some of the other members talking about their or their or their loved ones' experiences.

Fellow members such as @johnbishop @craigjulian @hopeful33250 may have some input for you on your recent MCN/IPMN diagnosis with highly atypical cells (not cancer). They also may have thoughts about the recommended distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy, including recovery from this surgery and any long-term effects.

poppett - do you have any particular concerns at this point about the diagnosis or about the proposed surgery?

Hello @poppett,

I can understand you wanting to connect with others who have this diagnosis. It can be frightening to have something wrong with the pancreas. I have had an IPMN diagnosis for many years now; however, there has never been any reference to "highly atypical cells."

Before consenting to this surgical procedure, I assume you are getting a second opinion. A second opinion is always wise prior to major surgery such as this. I would suggest that this second opinion be at a Pancreas Center of Excellence. Mayo Clinic could be considered. Here is a link to appointment information for the three Mayo Clinic locations (http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63). If it is not possible to be seen at a Mayo facility, I would recommend contacting the Pancreas Foundation for a second opinion recommendation: https://pancreasfoundation.org/patient-resources/npf-centers-of-excellence/

You mention having existing digestive issues. Could you describe these issues?

@poppett
Hi Poppett
I am 68 years.old. I was diagnosed with IPMN last December 2025. The doctor said it was atypical but this then turn nasty very quickly. Before having IPMN I was fit and healthy not on any medication.
The jaundice set in and my bile duct was completely blocked. Had Total Pancreatectomy this April and recovered well. Thankfully the surgeon managed to preserve my spleen. Just had my 1st course of chemotherapy.