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Is Tumour Reduction Advisable Before Surgery In A Person With Pancreatic Cancer?
Hello. My mother has pancreatic cancer. Some scans showed metastasis but some others like pet ct being one of them showed no mets so the doctor could not be sure about mets. However he said that we want the tumor to become smaller so as to have surgery hopefully.She is now on chemo with abraxane and gemzar and i would like to know if this is the best possible choice. Thank you.
Tue, 25 Apr 2023
Hi,
In general, it is often recommended to try to reduce the size of a pancreatic tumor before surgery, as this can improve the chances of a successful surgical outcome. This is because smaller tumors are often easier to remove completely, which can improve the chances of long-term survival.
Chemotherapy is a common treatment option for pancreatic cancer, and the combination of Abraxane and Gemzar is one of the standard chemotherapy regimens used for this type of cancer. These drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells, which can help to slow or stop the growth of the tumor.
It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of chemotherapy with your mother's healthcare team, as well as any other treatment options that may be appropriate based on her situation. They can guide the best course of treatment for her specific type and stage of cancer, taking into account her overall health and other factors.
It is also important to keep in mind that pancreatic cancer is a challenging disease, and treatment outcomes can be difficult to predict. Your mother's healthcare team can provide guidance and support throughout the treatment process, and can help you and your family understand what to expect as she moves forward with her care.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
In general, it is often recommended to try to reduce the size of a pancreatic tumor before surgery, as this can improve the chances of a successful surgical outcome. This is because smaller tumors are often easier to remove completely, which can improve the chances of long-term survival.
Chemotherapy is a common treatment option for pancreatic cancer, and the combination of Abraxane and Gemzar is one of the standard chemotherapy regimens used for this type of cancer. These drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells, which can help to slow or stop the growth of the tumor.
It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of chemotherapy with your mother's healthcare team, as well as any other treatment options that may be appropriate based on her situation. They can guide the best course of treatment for her specific type and stage of cancer, taking into account her overall health and other factors.
It is also important to keep in mind that pancreatic cancer is a challenging disease, and treatment outcomes can be difficult to predict. Your mother's healthcare team can provide guidance and support throughout the treatment process, and can help you and your family understand what to expect as she moves forward with her care.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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