What is enucleation of a pancreatic tumor?
Enucleation is the precise removal of the tumor within its capsule while preserving as much healthy pancreatic tissue as possible.
Unlike standard resections, during this operation:
- no significant part of the pancreas is removed
- the anatomy of the organ is not disturbed more than necessary
- in most cases, the spleen and adjacent vessels are preserved
The operation is performed only when the tumor lies at a safe distance from the main pancreatic duct.
Our approach
At MSI, enucleation is used only after careful assessment of the tumor's location and the risk of injury to the main pancreatic duct.
Before surgery, a comprehensive examination is carried out, including:
- multiphase computed tomography or MRI
- laboratory tests
- tumor markers
- endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), when indicated
The main goal of the operation is complete removal of the tumor while preserving as much pancreatic function as possible.
*When technically feasible, we aim to perform enucleation laparoscopically.* The minimally invasive approach means less surgical trauma, faster recovery, and a better cosmetic result.
Postoperative treatment follows the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)*.
When is surgery needed?
Enucleation is performed for:
- insulinomas
- small functioning neuroendocrine tumors
- certain non-functioning neuroendocrine tumors
- serous cystadenoma
- certain solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN)
- other benign or low-grade lesions
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended when:
- the tumor is benign or has low malignant potential
- the lesion is small
- there is sufficient distance from the main pancreatic duct
- complete removal is possible without resecting a significant part of the organ
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After the pancreas is mobilized, the tumor is carefully dissected and removed without significant resection of the surrounding tissue. Special attention is paid to preserving the main pancreatic duct and the blood vessels.
The removed tissue is sent for histopathological examination.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery
- Performed laparoscopically whenever possible
- Maximum preservation of pancreatic tissue
- Preservation of the organ's exocrine and endocrine function
- Less surgical trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Faster recovery
- Shorter hospital stay
- Better cosmetic result
Recovery after surgery
Postoperative treatment follows *ERAS* principles.
Because most of the pancreas is preserved, the risk of diabetes and exocrine insufficiency is minimal. After surgery, the main focus is on monitoring for a possible postoperative pancreatic fistula and assessing gland function.
Our advantages
- An organ-preserving approach
- Maximum preservation of pancreatic function
- A commitment to laparoscopic surgery
- Use of modern preoperative diagnostic methods
- Individual choice of the optimal extent of surgery
- A multidisciplinary approach
- Enhanced recovery program (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
In enucleation, only the tumor is removed, whereas in resection part of the pancreas is removed. This preserves as much organ function as possible.
No. Enucleation is possible only with a certain tumor location and a low risk of malignancy.
Yes. When indicated and technically feasible, we aim to perform enucleation laparoscopically.
No. During enucleation, the spleen is almost always preserved.
In most cases, no. Because as much pancreatic tissue as possible is preserved, its function remains sufficient, so replacement therapy is rarely needed.