Final answer:
When cancer is detected in the head of the pancreas, surgery, particularly the Whipple procedure, is typically the primary step taken for management, provided the tumor is localized. This is often followed by a multidisciplinary approach for further treatment or palliative care depending on the tumor's advancement. Early detection is critical due to the aggressive nature of pancreatic cancer and its tendency to be diagnosed at a late stage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Management of Pancreatic Cancer in the Head of the Pancreas
When cancer is found in the head of the pancreas, management typically involves several steps, the primary one being surgery if the tumor is localized and resectable. The most common surgical procedure for this condition is the Whipple procedure, or pancreaticoduodenectomy, which removes the head of the pancreas along with a portion of the stomach, the duodenum, the gallbladder, and the bile duct. The goal is to excise the tumor completely along with any local lymph nodes to reduce the chance of spread or recurrence. This surgery is complex and requires careful pre-surgical assessment including a CT scan with contrast to determine the extent of the disease and to plan the surgical approach.
Given the aggressive nature of pancreatic cancer, a multidisciplinary approach including oncology, surgery, and gastroenterology is often needed. If the tumor is too advanced for surgery, other treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or palliative care to manage symptoms might be considered. Early detection is crucial for a better prognosis, as pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage.