Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging sites in oncology, and the outcome depends directly on the experience of the surgical team and the right treatment sequence. Anadolu’s hepato-pancreato-biliary team specialises in pancreatic surgery and manages these cases through a multidisciplinary tumour board.
Accurate staging (CT with a pancreatic protocol, endoscopic ultrasound and, if necessary, laparoscopy) shows whether radical surgery is possible straight away or whether neoadjuvant chemotherapy is needed first to shrink the tumour.
Treatment methods at Anadolu
Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy)
The standard operation for tumours of the head of the pancreas: removal of the head of the pancreas, the duodenum and the bile duct, with reconstruction. At experienced centres, the risks are much lower.
Distal pancreatectomy
For tumours of the body and tail of the pancreas — removal of the distal part of the gland, laparoscopically or robotically where possible.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (FOLFIRINOX)
For borderline resectable tumours, intensive chemotherapy given before surgery shrinks the tumour and increases the chances of a radical resection.
Radiotherapy (MR-Linac)
The MR-Linac allows the pancreatic tumour to be irradiated precisely while tracking the position of the organs in real time — which is crucial so close to the bowel and stomach.
Systemic treatment and supportive care
Modern chemotherapy protocols, nutritional support and pain control are an integral part of the treatment programme.
Why international patients choose Anadolu
- Affiliation with Johns Hopkins Medicine — shared clinical protocols with one of the largest medical centres in the United States.
- JCI, ESMO and OECI accreditations — internationally recognised quality and patient safety.
- Multidisciplinary tumour boards — your treatment plan is decided not by a single doctor but by a team of specialists.
- Support in English — a coordinator and an interpreter at every step, from your first enquiry to discharge.
- A transparent cost estimate before you travel — you know the estimated cost of treatment in advance.
- Practical assistance — our team assists with travel and, where needed, visa formalities.
Specialist doctors
Kemal Raşa
Dr., Master Surgeon, FACS, FACP, Surgeon
General Surgery
Abdulcabbar Kartal
Associate Professor
Bariatric Surgery
Yeşim Yıldırım
Professor of Medical Oncology
Medical OncologyHow to start your treatment
Send your records
Reports, scans and test results — via the form, by email or WhatsApp.
The doctor’s opinion
A specialist will review your case free of charge within 48 hours.
Plan and cost estimate
You will receive the treatment plan and its estimated cost — before you travel.
Arrival and treatment
Transfers, accommodation and an interpreter — everything is arranged by the hospital.
Frequently asked questions — pancreatic cancer
Can my tumour be operated on?
A CT scan performed with a pancreatic protocol shows this: the relationship between the tumour and the blood vessels. Even “borderline resectable” tumours often become operable after neoadjuvant treatment — which is why the opinion of an experienced centre matters.
Is the Whipple procedure safe?
At high-volume centres, complications and mortality are much lower than in general hospitals. The Anadolu team performs these operations regularly, following a standardised postoperative protocol.
What if surgery is not possible?
Chemotherapy, precision radiotherapy (MR-Linac), procedures to relieve jaundice (stent placement) and pain control are used — the aim is to prolong survival and improve quality of life.
How soon should treatment start?
In pancreatic cancer, time is critical. The specialist’s response regarding your documents reaches you within 48 hours; you can travel and start treatment as early as the same week.
Which tests should I send for a second opinion?
An abdominal CT scan (with a pancreatic protocol if possible), bilirubin and CA 19-9 levels and, where available, the histology. Send your imaging as files or on a disc.
Request a treatment plan and cost estimate
Free: a specialist will review your records within 48 hours.