A study of 650 patients at Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, Baltimore, found that only nine patients, or 1.4%, died from complications related to surgery.
The mortality rate for patients undergoing pancreatectomy procedures can vary depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, as well as the overall health and condition of the patient. However, the mortality rate is generally considered to be around 2-5%.
These conditions are treated with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, which supplies digestive enzymes; and with insulin injections.
The CPT Codes for subtotal or total pancreatectomy is 48160.
Since many patients with pancreatic cancer are undernourished, appropriate nutritional support, sometimes by tube feedings, may be required prior to surgery.
Pancreatectomy is major surgery. Therefore, extended hospitalization is usually required with an average hospital stay of two to three weeks.
In cases of postoperative bleeding, the patient may be returned to surgery to find the source of hemorrhage, or may undergo other procedures to stop the bleeding.
After surgery, patients experience pain in the abdomen and are prescribed pain medication. Follow-up exams are required to monitor the patient's recovery and remove implanted tubes.
A pancreatectomy can be performed through an open surgery technique, in which case one large incision is made.
Patients should not eat or drink anything for the eight hours before the scheduled time of surgery.
Immediately following surgery, patients are monitored closely in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital for 24-72 hours. Most patients need to receive oxygen for four to 24 hours following surgery
In the days and weeks following surgery, anti-reflux medication should not be necessary. Pain following this surgery is usually mild, but some patients may need pain medication.