Pancreatic Cysts

People who have pancreatic cysts may experience symptoms like abdominal and back pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.

Types of pancreatic cysts

Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMNs) are the most common type of pancreatic cysts, occurring mainly among men and women over 50 years old.
Pancreatic pseudocysts are often a delayed complication as a result of pancreatitis (inflammation in the pancreas).
Serous cystadenomas are usually formed in the body or tail of the pancreas.
Mucinous cystic neoplasms have a higher risk of developing into cancer.
Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms are rare and occur among young women under 35 years old.

Diagnosing pancreatic cysts

Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, as well perform several imaging tests:

Transabdominal ultrasound
Computerised tomography (CT) scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Endoscopic ultrasound

Although pancreatic cysts can be benign, some have the potential to become malignant. Hence, it is vital to consult a pancreatic doctor to advise you on how best to manage the condition.

Treatments for Pancreatic Cysts

Most pancreatic cysts require only regular monitoring if they are not bothering the patient. However, if the cyst is growing larger, is at risk of becoming cancerous, or resulting in complications, then treatment is considered. Dr Victor Lee performed Singapore's 1st pancreas transplant in 2012, and has deep expertise in pancreas related diseases.

Endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration

This will be both diagnosis and management of the cysts. Image of procedure attached. Endoscopic ultrasound assessment is a minimally invasive procedure, which allows the doctor to evaluate pancreatic cysts and nodules. It can often help distinguish between benign and malignant tissue, especially when tissue biopsy is taken.

Drainage

Endoscopic drainage is a surgical procedure involving inserting a small flexible tube into the patient's mouth towards the small intestine. The tube contains an ultrasound probe and a needle to drain fluid from the cyst.

Surgery

Pancreatic cyst surgery is used to surgically remove the cyst. It is used for cases where there is a risk of cancer, or if the cyst is causing pain or is enlarged.

Dr Victor Lee and Dr Ek Khoon Tan have more than 40 years of experience in treating pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and pancreatic cysts. We believe that dedication, skill, and multidisciplinary care is key to achieving optimal outcomes.

For more information, call us at

6737 8878

Mount Elizabeth Orchard

6475 1488

Gleneagles Hospital

Request For An Appointment

Fill out the form below and we will call you to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.