Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Istanbul
In pancreatic cancer the first and most important question is whether the tumour can be removed by surgery, which an experienced team establishes through detailed imaging. New City Clinic coordinates that assessment and your treatment at its partner hospitals in Istanbul.
Assessment and diagnosis
Before a treatment plan is made, the type and stage of the disease are established. This usually involves:
- A pancreas-protocol CT and, where needed, MRI
- Endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy
- Blood tests and the tumour marker CA 19-9
- Review by the board of the tumour’s relation to nearby blood vessels
Treatment approaches
For patients who can have surgery, a Whipple operation or removal of the tail of the pancreas is planned according to the tumour’s position, with drug treatment before or after. Where surgery is not possible, drug treatment and, where appropriate, radiotherapy take the lead. If there is jaundice, the bile duct is first opened with a stent.
- Surgery: Whipple operation or distal pancreatectomy
- Chemotherapy before or after surgery
- For inoperable disease, chemotherapy and radiotherapy where appropriate
The tumour board decides which methods are used and in what order. The treatment plan is determined after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests.
For patients from Europe, the Middle East and Africa
New City Clinic coordinates oncology care for patients travelling from European countries, the Middle East and Africa. Istanbul has direct flights from many capitals in these regions, and the assessment starts from your reports before you travel.
- You can send your reports in English or in your own language; the necessary translations are arranged.
- For patients from countries that need a visa, a hospital appointment and invitation letter is provided for the application.
- Airport welcome, accommodation close to the hospital and arrangements for a companion are organised.
- Your treatment summary is prepared in English so that you can share it with your oncologist at home.
Partner hospitals with oncology centres
Oncology care is coordinated at the following partner hospitals, which have oncology centres. The hospital is chosen according to your condition, your physician and your preference.
How the process works
- 1
Send your documents
Pathology report, imaging reports and images, discharge summaries and a list of your medication.
- 2
Physician’s review
Your file goes to the relevant oncology physician; missing tests and a possible pathway are set out for you in writing.
- 3
Plan and quote
The expected tests, treatment steps, length of stay and itemised costs are given in writing.
- 4
Treatment in Istanbul
Airport welcome, accommodation, appointments and interpreting are organised by New City Clinic.
- 5
Follow-up
You receive your treatment summary and reports to share with your physician at home.
Frequently asked questions
Can every patient have surgery?
No. Only some patients are suitable for surgery at diagnosis. In some, surgery is reconsidered after drug treatment.
What is a Whipple operation?
A major operation removing the head of the pancreas together with the duodenum, part of the bile duct and the gallbladder; it should be performed in experienced centres.
Which documents should I send?
The pathology report, CT/MRI/PET-CT reports and, if possible, the images themselves, operation and discharge reports, blood tests and your medication list.
Can you give any assurance about the outcome?
No. No institution can guarantee the result of cancer treatment. Your physician will explain expectations and risks for your situation openly.
How is the cost determined?
It depends on the tests required and on the type and length of treatment. An itemised written quote follows the physician’s assessment.
Other cancer types
Back to the oncology sectionThis page is for general information and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. A treatment plan is determined only after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests. In an emergency, contact your local medical services.
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