Pancreatectomy is classified into several types:

Open or laparoscopic pancreatectomy

In open pancreatectomy, an open surgery is carried out to remove the pancreas while in laparoscopic pancreatectomy, a laparoscope is used for the surgery.

A laparoscopic surgery is done through three or four small incisions in the abdomen. Initially, carbon dioxide is introduced into the abdomen. The laparoscope is introduced through one of the incisions, which has a source of light and a small camera at the end. The pictures from the camera can be seen on a screen. Surgical instruments are introduced through the incisions and the surgery is carried out. Laparoscopic surgery results in reduced hospital stay and complications as compared to the open procedure. However, complicated procedures may not be possible through a laparoscope.

Robotic surgery is another new avenue that has improved the outcome in patients requiring pancreatectomy. It provides 3-dimensional imaging and allows a better view for surgery. It also allows the surgeon to use his hands comfortably. It is often used for more complicated surgeries where laparoscopy is not an option. However, the cost-effectiveness of the procedure should also be kept in mind.

Partial or total pancreatectomy

Surgical removal of the whole pancreas is called total pancreatectomy. Sometimes, a procedure called islet cell auto transplantation is combined with total pancreatectomy. In this procedure, islet cells that produce insulin are removed from the surgically excised pancreas and re-introduced into the liver of the patient.

When a part of the pancreas is removed, the surgery is called partial pancreatectomy. Due to its proximity to organs like the duodenum, stomach and spleen, some parts of these organs may need to be surgically removed.