Hi Tim,
Welcome to Mayo Connect. Thank you for your kind words. My surgery was successful and I am still healing. Each day following surgery will bring you a step closer to getting back on track to living YOUR life. I don't say this flippantly, but try not to borrow worry from tomorrow or worry too much about the surgery. I have a type A personality and had the proverbial laundry list of things I wanted to accomplish prior to surgery and didn't allow myself to just live in the moment and enjoy life. Regarding your questions, since my gallbladder was removed during emergency surgery in 2009, I did not need to have that done during Dr. Cleary's surgery for the pancreatic NET. It is common to have the gallbladder, spleen and pNET removed at the same time as they all converge at the biliary tract. You will also have a nasogastric tube placed in your nose during surgery that will stay for about 2 days prior to having it removed bedside. It's not a big deal really- it just drains the nasty stuff from your gastrointestinal tract. I will say that overall my recovery was not that bad, however my ribs on both sides ached and the incision to remove the pancreas (4-5 in) hurt for about a month after surgery. It also took about a month before I could comfortably lay flat in bed and I still have issues with the abdominal muscles hurting when I have a busy day. Ice packs are a great thing to have on hand when you arrive back home. I still find myself holding my abdomen at various times just for comfort from the pain (especially when I laugh) which is ironic. To combat the often intense rib pain and incision pain, Dr. Cleary prescribed tramadol and oxycodone, which worked beautifully and I only needed to take both for about 2 weeks. I honestly have to say, the recovery isn't that bad- which I was surprised and thankful for. As for pre-op suggestions, I would just recommend that you have some precooked meals prepared and frozen so that you can just rest. They don't want you to lift anything more than 8 pounds (equal about 1 gallon of milk) for about a month. I am 54 and was so tired for about 3 months following surgery, and ended up taking naps when I was tired which helped me heal faster. You will LOVE Dr. Cleary and his AWESOME team! They are top-notch in their profession and are all so incredibly empathetic and caring. Don't be afraid to speak up if you have pain or questions. They are always ready to answer any questions you may have. Also, be sure to take whatever medications they prescribed until you feel well enough to function without them. Initially I tried to tough it out without anything and it only hampered my recovery. While you are in the hospital, the surgical team will see you daily. It's a great time to tell them how you are feeling, ask any questions and share you concerns. You can eat and drink anything after your surgery (the food at Mayo is SOOOO good)! I hope this helps bring you some peace. If you can think of additional questions, I am an open book and would be more than happy to answer anything I can. (I also sent you a private message with more details about my surgery). Please know that you will be in excellent hands! I had my first cancer surgery (lung) at Mayo in 2000 and it was also successful. Mayo is the ONLY place I seek care for my extensive medical history. This is without a doubt a challenging time for you and your family. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you navigate your diagnosis, emotions, fears, and SUCCESS! I will support you during every leg of the journey until you rediscover your strength.
If you need a listening ear, please feel free to reach out to me. I may not have all the answers, but I can share my experiences.

"Cancer cannot cripple love it cannot shatter hope, it cannot conquer the spirit." - Unknown

Warmest Regard,
Sherry Kirby