How are Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMNs) treated?

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  1. Dr. John A. Chabot
     
    Dr. John A. Chabot of Columbia University Department of Surgery answered:
    If IPMN is detected early enough, there is a good chance for a cure with surgery. Sometimes, the recommended course of action for IPMN is a total pancreatectomy, in which the entire pancreas is removed. While guaranteeing cancer in the pancreas will not develop in the future, a total pancreatectomy also means that the patient will become an insulin-dependent diabetic. If diagnosed with IPMN, you should talk to your doctor carefully about your treatment options.
    If IPMN is detected early enough, there is a good chance for a cure with surgery. Sometimes, the recommended course of action for IPMN is a total pancreatectomy, in which the entire pancreas is removed. While guaranteeing cancer in the... More