What's recovery after distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy like?

I had the distal panc/splenectomy. Dr Kendrick did an amazing job laparoscopically and had veins to reconstruct. Unfortunately, I had pancreatic leak with the small remaining piece of pancreas and developed fluid pockets and an abscess. I was in the hospital for a month and out of work for three months recovering and dealing with drains, infections etc. a friend of mine just had the same only with open surgery and her recovery has been very difficult as well. Much more so with an open wound from chest to belly button. If you can get it done laparoscopically, it’s an easier recovery from a wound healing perspective. Keep in mind that you may also have diabetes after surgery depending on how much pancreas is taken. That’s a challenge to manage at the beginning as well.

My husband had a distalpanc/splenectomy too. He also developed fluid pockets and an abscess. Can you tell me how long after the surgery you got the infection? My husbands was three weeks later. He did not have to be hospitalized again luckily but I am still [acking his wound. Best of luck to you!

About 2.5 weeks after surgery I went home and could not control the pain at all so badly the next morning we called an ambulance I was readmitted for IV antibiotics and stayed another ten days. I’m glad his is manageable at home. It’s a long healing process! He’s lucky to have you!

When did you experience the infection and are you fully recovered, no more drain etc.? I have fought pockets/ abcess infection since 1 week out of hospital post OP……fevers, no appetite, drains that did not drain because of thick puerile accumulation in the pockets……it has been 2 months and I am still draining pancreatic fluid……how does this end and how long?

Infection was about 2-2.5 weeks after surgery. It took over a month to clear up and the drains remained for almost three months. Very long process and going in to IR every other week for drain repositioning wasn’t fun either. And then after they removed one of my drains the hole closed and became a huge abscess on the outside of my body that then needed to be lanced, drained, and left me with a hole to pack. Yuck. I also lost 40 pounds and had to force myself to drink shakes, smoothies, anything I could handle. Then my drain was collecting stomach contents and they finally removed it. Nightmare! Oh and after all that starts chemo! This is a beast. But I recovered from all the surgical stuff at a little over the three month mark. after the last drain was removed I felt much better and healing went well from then on. You will get through this but it sucks. Sorry you’re part of the PC club. 🙁

Thank you for sharing your experience……I am hopeful that this nightmare is nearing a resolution…..I too have lost over 40 lbs and am pretty weak. Will be getting Drain check today……have had goood flow for past week and no fever……a big improvement……..and I seem to be able to eat more frequently and consume more at each meal.

The best you can do for him is make sure he is healthy as possible going into the surgery. Eating greens, protein (!) and vegetable. Multi vitamin at least. Walking, swimming, or whatever every day! And, most important, find thriving survivor stories. They are out there in many places.

Lastly, remember there is a Great Physician that works through our doctors. Give Him the glory and your trust. It will be okay
If he is already healthy he shouldn’t need you home more than 2 weeks after hospital release. He will be sore but not incapacitated!

Great n good news. What are the recommended diet? Is probiotic good too ?

Thank you for sharing your experience……I am hopeful that this nightmare is nearing a resolution…..I too have lost over 40 lbs and am pretty weak. Will be getting Drain check today……have had goood flow for past week and no fever……a big improvement……..and I seem to be able to eat more frequently and consume more at each meal.