Ask a family member or friend if they could help you. Since the procedure with waiting times may take as long as two hours, you can have one person drop you off and another pick you up.
Imaging scans are used to help the doctor guide the needle to the correct area of your pancreas. This procedure usually takes around half an hour.
The endoscope also completes up close imaging tests of your pancreas, stomach, and intestines. This method results in less discomfort. It is also usually the most accurate biopsy method for the pancreas. This method can take up to an hour.
This particular procedure may be used if they need a sample from the bile duct or pancreatic duct. This method is generally not as definitive as other methods.
New technology using forceps has made this type of biopsy promising. The forceps may be used to take a large sample. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Though this method isn’t as common, the doctor may choose this type of biopsy if they believe cancer has spread to surrounding organs. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Cancer Society Nonprofit devoted to promoting cancer research, education, and support Go to source
Instead, you should take it easy at home for the rest of the day. Rest and let yourself physically and emotionally recover from the procedure.
While they examine the cells, they will also stage it, which means they will determine how far the cancer cells have spread. The stage of the cancer helps them determine your treatment.
If you have a percutaneous FNA, you may experience swelling or soreness at the site. The incisions used in a laparoscopy generally heal within a week.
You may also choose to go see a therapist. Talking through your emotions may help you prepare for your results and any treatment that might be necessary.
Jaundice is another sign of pancreatic problems. This is when your skin and eyes start to have a yellow tint.
The oncologist will also look for tumor markers in the blood. These are compounds found in the blood that may indicate cancer is present in the body. It is not completely reliable, but higher tumor markers indicate a biopsy may be needed.
Common imaging tests include CT scans and MRIS of the abdomen. You may also undergo an endoscopic ultrasound, which is an ultrasound conducted by placing a tube that takes images of your abdomen down your throat. An endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography is a procedure where an endoscope is placed down your throat and injects dye into your abdomen. An x-ray is then taken.
