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Life After Pancreatic Surgery

Life after pancreas surgery requires some adjustments. Recovery can be difficult, and in some cases, major changes must be made. It is possible to regain a normal life after this surgery, with cooperation between the patient and doctor.

  1. Post Surgery Recovery

    • Hospitalization for five days to three weeks is expected, depending on the type of surgery. Patients do not eat a solid diet for at least five days after surgery, and will spend the first day or so in the intensive care unit.

    Complications

    • The most common complication is pancreatic leakage. In this case, a Jackson-Pratt drain is inserted. Another complication is delayed gastric emptying, which causes nausea and vomiting for most patients. In this case, the patient is fed intravenously for up to six weeks.

    At Home

    • After discharge, patients may experience severe nausea and vomiting. This is because only one or two meals have been eaten and the digestive tract is still adjusting. Weight loss can also occur a few weeks after surgery, sometimes as many as 30 pounds.

    Follow-up Medical Care

    • Patients will be seen every two weeks for the first six to eight weeks after surgery.

    Lifestyle

    • It may take awhile to resume normal eating, and rich, fatty food should be avoided. Diarrhea may be a long-range concern with greasy foods; most patients will need to avoid these completely.

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