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WHAT IS PANCREATIC SURGERY?
The pancreas sits deep in the upper belly, behind the stomach, and is an important part of the digestive system. It makes digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. Surgery on the pancreas involves removing part or, rarely, all of the gland to treat pancreatic cancer, other tumors, some pancreatic cysts and complications of chronic pancreatitis. The best-known operation is the Whipple procedure, which removes the head of the pancreas. At North Florida Surgeons in Jacksonville, FL, pancreas surgery is part of our hepatobiliary surgery program, and we work closely with your gastroenterologist and oncologist.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Pancreas operations at North Florida Surgeons are led by Dr. David Niemeyer, who completed fellowship training in hepatobiliary and pancreas surgery and treats benign and malignant diseases of the liver and pancreas.
Each plan is reviewed with your cancer care team, including whether chemotherapy is best before or after surgery.
Before surgery we review your CT or MRI scans, endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy results with you.
WHY PANCREATIC SURGERY IS DONE
PANCREATIC CANCER
Surgery offers the best chance of long-term control for pancreatic cancer that has not spread. Many patients also receive chemotherapy, sometimes before surgery to shrink the tumor.
OTHER TUMORS
Neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas and tumors of the bile duct, duodenum or ampulla, where the bile and pancreatic ducts drain, are often treated with the same operations.
PANCREATIC CYSTS
Most pancreatic cysts are harmless and only need monitoring. Surgery is recommended for cysts with features that suggest a higher risk of cancer, such as some IPMNs and mucinous cysts.
CHRONIC PANCREATITIS
For severe pain or blocked ducts from chronic pancreatitis that do not improve with other treatment, surgery to drain or remove part of the pancreas may help. Learn more about our hepatobiliary surgery services.
RISKS TO KNOW
Pancreatic surgery is a major operation. The most common problem is a leak of pancreatic fluid, which usually heals with a drain. Other risks include slow stomach emptying, infection, bleeding, blood clots and diabetes.
TYPES OF PANCREATIC SURGERY
WHIPPLE PROCEDURE
A pancreaticoduodenectomy involves removing the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine, the gallbladder and the end of the bile duct. The remaining pancreas, bile duct and stomach are then reconnected to the intestine. It is usually done as open surgery and takes several hours.
DISTAL PANCREATECTOMY
This operation removes the body and tail of the pancreas, often together with the spleen. It can often be done laparoscopically through small incisions. Learn about splenectomy.
OTHER OPERATIONS
A central pancreatectomy removes a short middle section of the pancreas for some benign or low-grade tumors. Removing the whole pancreas (total pancreatectomy) is rarely needed and requires insulin and digestive enzyme capsules for life.
WHAT TO EXPECT
BEFORE SURGERY
You will have imaging, blood tests and often an endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy. Staying active, eating well and stopping smoking help you recover. See our checklist for general surgery.
IN THE HOSPITAL
After a Whipple procedure most patients stay about a week. Our enhanced recovery (ERAS) program helps you walk, drink and eat soon after surgery.
EATING AFTER SURGERY
Small, frequent meals work best at first. Many patients take pancreatic enzyme capsules with meals to help digest fat and protein, and some need treatment for high blood sugar.
RECOVERY
Full recovery usually takes two to three months. If you had surgery for cancer, we coordinate the next steps with your oncologist and see you for regular follow-up.
OUR PANCREAS SURGEON
Pancreatic surgery at North Florida Surgeons is performed by Dr. David Niemeyer. Learn more about hepatobiliary surgery and surgical oncology.
PANCREATIC SURGERY FAQS
What is a Whipple procedure?
The Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) removes the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine, the gallbladder and part of the bile duct, then reconnects the digestive tract. It is the main operation for tumors in the head of the pancreas.
How long is the hospital stay after a Whipple procedure?
Most patients stay about a week. The stay can be longer if there are complications such as a pancreatic leak or slow stomach emptying.
What is recovery like after a pancreatectomy?
Most people feel close to normal in two to three months. Energy and appetite return gradually, and small frequent meals help in the first weeks.
Will I need enzymes or insulin after pancreas surgery?
Many patients take pancreatic enzyme capsules with meals. Some develop diabetes, especially after removal of a large part of the pancreas. After a total pancreatectomy, enzymes and insulin are needed for life.
Do all pancreatic cysts need surgery?
No. Most pancreatic cysts are benign and are followed with imaging. Surgery is recommended only for cysts with features that raise the risk of cancer.
Will I need chemotherapy as well?
Most patients with pancreatic cancer receive chemotherapy before and/or after surgery. Your surgeon and oncologist will plan the order of treatment together.
Does insurance cover pancreas surgery?
Pancreas surgery is usually covered when it is medically necessary, but coverage depends on your plan. See the insurance plans we accept or call our office.
Can pancreatic operations be done with robotic surgery?
Some can. A distal pancreatectomy is often done laparoscopically or robotically, while a Whipple procedure is most often done as open surgery. Your surgeon will recommend the safest approach for your tumor and health.
How do I request an appointment for pancreatic surgery in Jacksonville?
Call (904) 398-0033 or use the contact form. Our office is at 836 Prudential Dr., Suite 1001, Jacksonville, FL 32207. Related: hepatobiliary surgery, surgical oncology.
