Insulinoma Treatment in Turkey
About Insulinoma
Key Highlights
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High cure rate with complete surgical removal, often resolving hypoglycemia permanently.Utilizes advanced, minimally invasive diagnostic techniques like endoscopic ultrasound for precise tumor localization.Multidisciplinary approach involving endocrinologists, surgeons, and radiologists ensures comprehensive care.Significantly improves quality of life by eliminating unpredictable and dangerous episodes of low blood sugar.
Who is this surgery for?
- Recurrent episodes of neuroglycopenic symptoms (confusion, dizziness, seizures, loss of consciousness) and adrenergic symptoms (sweating, palpitations, tremors) related to fasting or exercise.
- Documented Whipple's Triad: symptoms of hypoglycemia, low plasma glucose measured at the time of symptoms, and relief of symptoms upon raising blood sugar.
- Confirmed biochemical evidence of endogenous hyperinsulinism (elevated insulin, C-peptide, and proinsulin during hypoglycemia).
- Positive localization of a pancreatic tumor on imaging studies (CT, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound).
How to prepare
- Undergo a supervised diagnostic fast (usually 72 hours) in a hospital setting to safely document hypoglycemia.
- Complete all necessary imaging studies (CT, MRI, EUS) to map the tumor's exact size and location.
- Discontinue any medications that might affect blood sugar levels, as advised by your endocrinologist.
- For scheduled surgery, follow standard pre-operative instructions, including fasting and necessary blood work.
- Discuss your full medical history, including all medications and allergies, with your care team.
Risks & possible complications
- Surgical risks include bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding organs like the spleen or bile ducts.
- Specific to pancreatic surgery: potential for pancreatic fistula (leakage of pancreatic fluid), pancreatitis, or diabetes if a significant portion of the pancreas is removed.
- Anesthesia-related risks.
- Rare recurrence of the tumor or, in malignant cases, potential for metastasis.
- Complications from diagnostic procedures, such as perforation from endoscopic ultrasound (very rare).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay is required post-surgery for pain management, monitoring for complications, and ensuring stable blood sugar levels.
- Blood glucose levels are closely monitored as the body adjusts to normal insulin production.
- A temporary drain may be placed near the surgical site to remove excess fluid.
- Diet will progress from clear liquids to solid foods as bowel function returns.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to check surgical wounds, monitor glucose control, and assess for any long-term needs like enzyme replacement if pancreatic function is affected.
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Typical hospital stay:
5-10 days
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Expected recovery time:
4-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering insulinoma in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with endocrinology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform insulinoma. MediFyr helps you compare endocrinologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for insulinoma compare across other countries where we have data.
Dr. g sandeep reddy provided exceptional...
Dr. g sandeep reddy provided exceptional care for my endocrinology condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.