Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas is deep within the abdominal cavity and produces hormones that help you absorb nutrients from food. Pancreatic cancer (malignancy) occurs when abnormal cells form a mass. It typically doesn’t cause symptoms until advanced stages, making it challenging to treat. But advanced therapies, such as the ones available at UMass Memorial Health, can help you.

Nationally Recognized Pancreatic Cancer Care in Central Massachusetts and Beyond

The best care comes from programs like ours that treat a high volume of patients. We use the latest techniques and maintain excellent outcomes. These attributes have earned UMass Memorial national recognition.

UMass Memorial Medical Center is a National Pancreas Foundation Center of Excellence. This honor is awarded to select programs committed to multi-specialty care and helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes. We are the only program in the region with this designation.

Pancreatic Malignancies We Treat

We deliver exceptional care, including a precise diagnosis and personalized treatments. Our expertise spans all forms of pancreatic cancer, including:

• Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (most common)
• Colloid carcinoma
• Cystic tumors
• Lymphomas
• Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
• Sarcomas
• Squamous cell carcinomas

Pancreatic Cancer Services We Provide

From diagnosis to treatment and recovery, UMass Memorial’s program has more of the services you need. Our offerings, some of which are not widely available elsewhere, include:

• Cancer genetic testing: Some pancreatic malignancies are due to cell changes (mutations) passed down in families. We are one of the few programs in the region with on-site testing to detect these mutations. This information enables us to tailor services to your needs.
• Pancreatic imaging: You have access to standard imaging techniques and sophisticated options like magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. This test enables us to assess the fine details of structures within the pancreas.
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Gastroenterologists slide a thin tube along the digestive tract to access the pancreas. A tiny imaging device and needle at the tip enable us to examine the area of concern and take a tissue sample.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: This technique is similar to EUS but uses a video camera to examine the pancreas. We use this technique to take tissue samples or place stents (hollow mesh tubes) to reopen narrowed passages.
• Surgery: We offer the Whipple procedure, which removes the first part of the pancreas (head) and nearby tissue and reconnects the remaining organs. Our capabilities also include pancreas transplants. These are some of the many procedures available at UMass Memorial.