Pancreatic cancer is dubbed as the “silent killer” because of its stealthy, symptom-free segue into a truly severe condition. Depending on how early it is caught, there are multiple approaches to successful treatment. Very few pancreatic cancers can be completely removed by surgery, but when surgical operations are called for, they tend to fall under two main headings: the Whipple procedure and distal pacreatectomies procedure.
What is the Whipple Procedure?
A Whipple procedure is recommended when the site of the tumor is localized within the head of the pancreas. Thus, it can only be used in a minority of cases in which pancreatic cancer is diagnosed early, before the disease has spread to major blood vessels and lymph nodes. This operation removes the infected pancreatic head, as well as portions of surrounding structures including the gallbladder, small intestine, bile duct, and even the stomach. The remaining structures are reconnected following excision.
According to a survey of 38 hospitals done by John Hopkins in 1995, the Whipple procedure cost an average of $31,659. Take into consideration the rising costs of healthcare in the past few years, however, and remember that the Whipple procedure is one operation with relatively slow recovery and high risks. Costly complications may develop.
Other Pancreatic Cancer Surgeries
In a similar manner to the Whipple procedures, tumors that develop in the lower or distal pancreas may be surgically removed. These operations are called distal pancreatectomies. It is not uncommon for the entire spleen to be removed if cancer is located in the body or distal area of the pancreas. These types of pancreatic surgery are rare, however, because a tumor located in such areas are often not completely removable. Just as with the Whipple procedure, complications should always be taken into account. Pancreatic leaks, one common problem that can arise following surgery, can easily double the price of treatment.
Finally, palliative surgeries can address the symptoms of, but are not meant to cure, pancreatic cancer. In cases such as these, bypass operations may be performed to reroute structures around an obstructing tumor. Patients may benefit from improved quality of life.
Insurance for Pancreatic Cancer Surgery
Clearly, surgical solutions to pancreatic cancer can be a gamble. The price tag alone is sobering, but in many cases, patients may find the risk factors too high. Once you receive a diagnosis and your doctor recommends treatment procedures, one of the most important people to contact is your insurance company. Talk to your healthcare provider about the amount of coverage he or she can provide. Remember that the possible complications are a big part of the picture—so make sure to get to the nitty-gritty details and ask about coverage for post-operative medical costs as well.
If you’re not happy with the final figure that your insurance company comes up with, remember that appealing their decision is always an option. Initiate the appeal process as quickly as possible and contact your surgeon and primary physician to supplement your argument with medical advice.
