Distal pancreatectomy

During this operation, only the tail and the body of the pancreas are removed. Spleen may also be removed due to proximity during surgery. Distal pancreatectomy is performed for tumors located in the tail and body of the pancreas. If cancer is present or suspected, spleen is also removed. Spleen helps the organism to fight against infections, so if it is removed, the risk of infection with certain bacteria increases. Before this surgery, patients should have specific vaccines.