Hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancers affect complex organs involved in digestion, metabolism, and the movement of bile. These cancers can require detailed evaluation and specialised surgical planning based on the location and extent of the disease.
Dr. Aditya Reelkar is a Surgical Oncologist providing surgical care for patients with cancers involving the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. Treatment is planned according to the type, location, stage, and extent of the disease, along with the patient's overall health.
Hepatobiliary cancers can affect the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, while pancreatic cancer develops within the pancreas. The symptoms and treatment requirements can vary depending on the organ involved and the stage of the disease.
Symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, digestive problems, or other unusual changes. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by an appropriate medical professional.
Surgery may form an important part of treatment for selected patients with hepatobiliary or pancreatic cancer. Depending on the tumour's location and extent, surgery may involve removing the affected portion of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, bile duct, or nearby tissues when required.
These procedures can be complex because these organs are closely associated with major blood vessels and other important abdominal structures. Detailed assessment and careful surgical planning are therefore essential before treatment.
Every patient's cancer is different. Treatment planning considers factors such as the type and stage of cancer, tumour location, involvement of surrounding structures, overall health, and previous treatments.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve surgery along with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or other specialised treatments. The appropriate treatment sequence is determined according to the individual clinical situation.
Detailed imaging and investigations may be required before surgery to understand the size and location of the tumour and its relationship with surrounding structures. This information helps the surgical team plan the procedure appropriately.
The objective of surgery is to achieve appropriate cancer removal while considering the preservation of important structures and functions wherever medically possible.
Hepatobiliary and pancreatic cancer treatment may involve several specialists, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, and pathologists.
Coordinated care allows different specialists to evaluate the condition and contribute to a comprehensive treatment plan.
Recovery depends on the type and extent of surgery and the patient's overall health. Follow-up consultations help monitor healing, review pathology results, and determine whether additional treatment or surveillance is required.
If you have been diagnosed with a liver, gallbladder, bile duct, or pancreatic tumour, or have been advised to undergo surgical evaluation, a consultation with a surgical oncologist can help you understand your condition and available treatment options.
© 2026 | Dr Aditya Reelkar
