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Pancreatic Cancer Program
Pancreatic cancer requires subspecialized care from experts. As one of the region’s most experienced pancreatic cancer teams, we guide you with compassion and expertise to your best possible outcome.
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phone
855-776-4224
Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224
8557764224
Expert pancreatic cancer treatment and innovation
At the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, our program is among the most experienced in the region in treating pancreatic cancer, including complex surgical procedures such as the Whipple procedure. Care is delivered by teams that focus exclusively on pancreatic disease and collaborate closely across specialties.
As part of a research-driven health system, eligible patients may have access to clinical trials and emerging therapies. For example, Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute is home to New England’s only proton therapy center.
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Our approach to pancreatic cancer care
If you have suspected or diagnosed pancreatic cancer, we’re here to guide you. Our specialists work together to deliver comprehensive care, customized to your needs and goals.
National recognition for pancreatic cancer care
We’re home to a designated Pancreatic Cancer Center by the National Pancreas Foundation. This designation recognizes our commitment to providing multispecialty pancreatic cancer treatment that improves quality of life and outcomes for our patients.
Team-based pancreatic cancer treatment
Our team approach ensures each of our patients benefits from coordinated, individualized treatment. Your care team may include:
- Endoscopists
- Gastroenterologists
- Medical, radiation, and surgical oncologists
- Nutritionists
- Oncology nurses and nurse practitioners
- Oncology psychiatrists and social workers
- Palliative care providers
- Pathologists and diagnostic radiologists
Expert pancreatic cancer diagnosis and staging
Our pathologists and diagnostic radiologists use the most advanced tools and technology to detect and stage cancer. We were one of the first hospitals in the nation to offer endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Our specialists use this minimally invasive procedure that combines X-rays with video technology to diagnose and treat bile duct conditions.
Advanced imaging technology
We use the latest imaging technology to provide the most accurate diagnostic testing and to guide many treatments, including:
- 2D and 3D CT scans
- 3D imaging for presurgical planning
- Combination PET/CT scans
- Endoscopic ultrasounds
- Intraoperative ultrasounds
- Molecular imaging
- MRIs
- Spectral imaging with CT
- Tumor perfusion studies with CT and MRI
Excellence in pancreatic cancer surgery
The Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute offers one of the country’s largest and most experienced pancreatic cancer surgery teams. We perform twice as many pancreatic removals as other hospitals in the region, leading to better outcomes. Our surgeons also lead one of the highest-volume robotic pancreatectomy programs at any academic medical center, including a very high volume of robotic Whipple procedures.
Advanced cancer radiation therapies
Our radiation oncologists use the most advanced techniques, many of which are only available at select hospitals. Your care may include:
- External beam radiation therapy: Radiation delivered from outside the body
- Intraoperative radiation therapy: Radiation delivered during surgery to treat remaining cancer cells.
- Proton therapy: An advanced form of radiation that uses high-energy proton particles instead of X-rays to deliver precise treatment.
Innovative medical treatments in cancer
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for pancreatic cancer. Our medical oncologists also use new, innovative therapies including medications that target specific gene mutations (changes) in tumors. For some patients, these drugs can be used in place of traditional chemotherapy or radiation to help stop cancer cells from growing.
Pancreatic cancer treatment options
Pancreatic cancer develops in the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach that produces hormones and digestive enzymes. Our team treats all types of pancreatic cancers, using the latest and most effective approaches, including:
Our cancer specialists
At every step, your care is guided by a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists. This may include medical, surgical, and radiation oncology physicians, advanced practice providers, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurses, nurse navigators, and more. You may also work with dietitians, genetic counselors, social workers, and mental health professionals.
primary
phone
855-776-4224
Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute
8557764224
Patient story
An incidental finding leads to lifesaving care
Lindsey Scheyer’s appendicitis treatment revealed something more dire: a 2-inch tumor on her pancreas. At only 11 years old, spleen-sparing pancreas surgery at Mass General Brigham saved her life.
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Read Lindsey's story
Cancer clinical trials and research
Our research is shaping the future of cancer care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our cancer research
Learn how cancer research informs patient care
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Patient resources and support
We offer a range of resources to support patients and caregivers before, during, and after cancer treatment. These services address physical, emotional, and practical needs and are available alongside your medical care.
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Contact the Cancer Institute
Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
primary
phone
855-776-4224
Call the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at 855-776-4224
8557764224
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International Patient Services
Contact International Patient Services