If
a tumor has spread beyond the pancreas, surgery will not be helpful.
The best treatment for pancreatic cancer that has spread (metastasized)
is chemotherapy.
Some patients are able to take part in studies, called clinical
trials, that test new treatments. These treatments may include new
chemotherapy drugs or new combinations of different drugs. Click
here to visit the Pancreatic Tumor Study Group's Clinical Trials
section.
As more effective drugs become available, the treatment options for pancreatic cancer
may change. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of various treatment options
with you and your family. Ask your doctor any questions you have about the cancer or its
treatment so that you will understand and feel comfortable with your treatment decision.
Many people are aware of the statistics regarding life expectancy, or prognosis, for
pancreatic cancer. Although statistics can be helpful, they can also be misleading. If you
have questions about your prognosis, ask your doctor. Your doctor is the only person who
knows enough about your case to discuss this with you.