What Is a Pancreatectomy Procedure?

A total pancreatectomy is a surgery to remove your whole pancreas. Your pancreas is located in the back of your abdomen (belly), behind your stomach and just above your small intestine (see Figure 1).

What are the side effects of a pancreatectomy?

Increased or foul smelling drainage from your incision site. Increased pain or redness at your incision site. Pain, nausea, or vomiting that is increased or not controlled by your current medication. Diarrhea or constipation that is not controlled.

Can a person live without a pancreas?

It's possible to live without a pancreas. But when the entire pancreas is removed, people are left without the cells that make insulin and other hormones that help maintain safe blood sugar levels. These people develop diabetes, which can be hard to manage because they are totally dependent on insulin shots.