Learn about Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor

A pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET) resection is a specialized surgical procedure performed by a surgical oncologist to remove tumors arising from the hormone-producing cells (islet cells) of the pancreas. These tumors can be functional, causing hormone-related symptoms, or non-functional. The specific operation, which may be a Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy), distal pancreatectomy, or enucleation, is meticulously planned based on the tumor's size, location, and type. The goal is complete tumor removal while preserving as much healthy pancreatic tissue and function as possible. This surgery is a cornerstone of treatment for localized PNETs and is often curative, requiring expert knowledge of pancreatic anatomy and complex reconstruction techniques.

Key Highlights

    Curative intent for localized tumors, offering the best chance for long-term survival.Performed by specialized surgical oncologists with expertise in complex pancreatic and hepatobiliary surgery.Tailored approach (Whipple, distal pancreatectomy, or enucleation) based on precise tumor characteristics.Aims to alleviate symptoms caused by hormone-secreting functional tumors.Can be performed using minimally invasive (laparoscopic/robotic) techniques in select cases for potentially faster recovery.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Diagnosis of a localized pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET) without evidence of widespread metastasis.
  • Functional PNETs (e.g., insulinoma, gastrinoma) causing significant hormonal symptoms like severe hypoglycemia or peptic ulcers.
  • Non-functional PNETs that are growing or are larger than 2 cm in size.
  • Tumors causing symptoms due to their size, such as pain, jaundice, or bowel obstruction.
  • As part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan, which may also include other therapies.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including blood tests, imaging (CT/MRI, Ga-68 DOTATATE PET-CT), and sometimes endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
  • Nutritional assessment and optimization, as pancreatic surgery can impact digestion.
  • Management of blood sugar levels, especially for patients with functional tumors like insulinomas.
  • Pre-operative counseling with the surgical, anesthesia, and nutrition support teams.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the surgeon, typically several days before surgery.
  • Fasting as per hospital protocol, usually starting at midnight before the surgery.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, blood clots (deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism), and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  • Pancreas-specific risks: Pancreatic fistula (leakage of pancreatic fluid), which is the most common significant complication.
  • Digestive issues: New-onset diabetes, malabsorption, diarrhea, or dumping syndrome, depending on the extent of resection.
  • Injury to nearby structures: Potential damage to bile ducts, intestines, spleen (in distal pancreatectomy), or major blood vessels.
  • Delayed gastric emptying: Temporary condition where the stomach empties slowly after surgery.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay involves monitoring in a specialized unit, pain management, and gradual advancement from liquids to solid foods.
  • Drains may be placed near the surgical site to remove fluid and are monitored for signs of a pancreatic leak.
  • Patients receive education on wound care, activity restrictions (no heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks), and signs of complications to watch for.
  • Long-term follow-up includes regular imaging and blood tests to monitor for recurrence and manage pancreatic function.
  • Nutritional support and enzyme replacement therapy (pancreatic enzymes) may be required to aid digestion and prevent weight loss.
  • A gradual return to normal activities is expected over several weeks, with full recovery taking months.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full recovery

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 350 Thousand – 1.2 Million 7-14 days ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full recovery Know More
Turkey TRY 1.23 Million – 4.2 Million 7-14 days ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full recovery Know More

Surgical Oncologists for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor

Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar

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Dr. Devesh S. Ballal
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

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Dr. Lakshmanan C.
  • 39 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Manjunath N. M. L.
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated