HPB Surgery › Distal Pancreatectomy
Distal Pancreatectomy
Surgical removal of the body and tail of the pancreas for cancer, cysts and neuroendocrine tumours.
Overview
Distal Pancreatectomy
Distal pancreatectomy involves surgical removal of the body and tail of the pancreas. It is the standard operation for tumours, cysts and other pathology located in the left side (body and tail) of the pancreas. The spleen is often removed at the same time (splenectomy), though spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy is possible in selected cases.
Minimally Invasive Options Available
Dr. Nahm performs laparoscopic and robotic distal pancreatectomy, offering the benefits of minimally invasive surgery for suitable candidates — reduced pain, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery.
Indications
- Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (body and tail)
- Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (pNETs)
- Mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs)
- IPMN involving the body/tail
- Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN)
- Symptomatic chronic pancreatitis (body/tail)
Surgical Approach
Dr. Nahm performs distal pancreatectomy using open, laparoscopic or robotic approaches. Minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy — particularly the robotic approach — has become increasingly preferred as it reduces blood loss, shortens hospital stay, and facilitates earlier recovery. The choice of approach is tailored to the individual patient and tumour characteristics.
Recovery
Hospital stay is typically 4–7 days for laparoscopic/robotic cases and 7–10 days for open surgery. A pancreatic fistula (leak from the pancreatic remnant) is the most common complication and is managed conservatively in most cases. Return to normal activities is generally expected within 4–8 weeks.