As with most forms of cancer, treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage and location of cancer and the patient’s overall health and personal treatment preferences. The goal of the treatment is to get rid of cancer. When that is not possible, the treatment options available are used to improve the quality of life and limit the progression of the disease.

Some of the treatment options for pancreatic cancer are mentioned below:

1. Surgery
Surgery is one of the most commonly used treatment options for pancreatic cancer and other forms of cancer too. If the tumor is located at the head of the pancreas, a pancreaticoduodenectomy or a Whipple procedure will be performed. It is a difficult procedure in which, along with the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, gallbladder, part of the bile duct, and surrounding lymph nodes are removed. In some cases, a part of the stomach and colon may also be removed. A distal pancreatectomy is performed when the left side of the pancreas needs to be taken off. In this surgical procedure, the spleen might also be removed. When the entire pancreas is removed from the body, it is known as a total pancreatectomy.

2. Chemotherapy
This is another treatment option for pancreatic cancer and other types of cancers too. In this treatment method, medications that destroy cancer cells are either injected into a vein or taken orally. When combined with radiation therapy, it is known as chemoradiation and is mostly used to treat cancer that has not spread from the pancreas to other organs. In advanced stages of pancreatic cancer, chemotherapy can be used to control cancer cells’ growth and provide relief from symptoms.

3. Radiation therapy
Among the treatment options for pancreatic cancer, this one involves the use of high-energy beams such as X-rays and protons to eliminate cancer cells. Most often, these radiation treatments are recommended before or after surgery and in combination with chemotherapy. Also, radiation therapy could be advised if cancer cannot be removed surgically or treated through chemotherapy.

4. Palliative care
This form of specialized supportive medical care is listed among the treatment options for pancreatic cancer, as it is used to provide relief from pain and other symptoms. It is provided by doctors, nurses, social workers, and other trained professionals. This treatment option is most often combined with the above-listed aggressive forms of treatment methods and aims to improve the quality of life of the patient.

5. Clinical trials
The ongoing studies into new treatment methods such as systemic therapy and new approaches to radiation therapy or surgery can also be recommended to treat pancreatic cancer. Although patients are closely monitored, these trials can have serious side effects. One can consult their doctor about clinical trials and whether they are appropriate for them.