Pancreatic cancer care
After receiving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, it can be hard to know what to do next. Our compassionate team of pancreatic experts is here to guide you. We provide cohesive care from nurse navigation to diagnosis, treatment, and clinical trials.
World-class pancreatic cancer care at Penn Medicine
Pancreatic cancer is rare, making up about three percent of all cancer diagnoses. At Penn Medicine, we have a team of world-class pancreatic cancer experts and support professionals whose sole focus is treating pancreatic cancer. They offer their expertise to give you the best possible results.
Experts at the Penn Medicine Pancreatic Cancer Research Center (PCRC) take a multidisciplinary approach—integrating oncology nurse navigation, medical oncology, surgery, gastroenterology, radiation oncology, and pathology—to deliver customized treatment based on the latest science.
The PCRC has four focus areas:
- Early detection: Our pancreatic cancer specialists are pioneers of leading-edge research in developing early detection methods for pancreatic cancer.
- Clinical trials: We offer the latest clinical trials available for all stages of pancreatic cancer. The Penn Pancreatic Cancer Research Center is committed to studying the disease to learn new and innovative treatments.
- Novel therapies: We’re answering the urgent need to establish new therapies for pancreatic cancer, testing new drugs in the lab, and deploying the findings to patients.
- Personalized treatment: Your pancreatic cancer doctor and care team take time to get to know you and your priorities, delivering treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Clinical trials
Our clinical trials pave the way for research breakthroughs and new, effective cancer treatments.
Second opinions
If you've received a diagnosis, our team of experts offers second opinions to grant you peace of mind.
Support services
Through these offerings, you can receive specialized physical and emotional support during cancer treatment.
Cancers we treat
- Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
Expert pancreatic cancer treatment paired with compassionate support
Navigating cancer care can be overwhelming. We make it easier. Whether you need pancreatic cancer screening, diagnostic, or treatment services, Penn Medicine’s network of experts has you covered.
When you partner with us, you can expect:
- Top surgical skills: Our surgeons perform a high volume of pancreatic surgeries, achieving some of the best outcomes in the nation. Patients travel from outside the region for the exceptional care other centers can’t provide.
- Compassionate care: As a leading referral center for the most challenging pancreatic cancer cases on the East Coast, we provide advanced, personalized treatment with unwavering support and compassion. Our specialists are by your side every step of the way.
- Rapid response: Prompt care is crucial for better outcomes in pancreatic cancer. Our specialists are committed to seeing you quickly and maximizing the value of each visit, often coordinating appointments with multiple specialists on the same day.
- Rare expertise: Our specialists have a deep understanding of how to care for all types of pancreatic cysts and tumors. We have a dedicated team of nurse navigators, pathologists, surgeons, and oncologists who specialize in pancreatic cancer to ensure you’re given the best possible recommendations.
- National recognition: We’ve been designated as a Center of Excellence by the National Pancreas Foundation. This means that after a thorough review, they found that we meet high standards for patient care and research advancement.
Specialized pancreatic cancer treatments at Penn Medicine
Pancreatic cancer treatments vary depending on your tumor size and location. We offer a variety of leading treatment options, including a Whipple procedure. Also known as a pancreatoduodenectomy, a Whipple procedure is the most common surgical treatment for pancreatic cancer. It’s performed by highly specialized surgeons at Penn Medicine.
Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following pancreatic cancer treatments.
One-on-one support every step of the way
At Penn Medicine, we believe that pancreatic cancer care goes beyond medical treatment. We’re here to provide support throughout your journey. Our patients are paired with an oncology nurse navigator specializing in pancreatic cancer to help them better understand their condition, treatment recommendations, and support services available. Our dedicated pancreatic cancer nurse navigator ensures you promptly receive all necessary appointments for tests and consultations. In addition, they’ll:
- Guide you through diagnosis and help you decide your care plan
- Help you schedule an appointment with an oncologist and pancreatic cancer surgeon
- Assist in determining your eligibility for a clinical trial
- Work with you and your caregiver(s) on nutrition, pain management, mental health, and other issues to enhance your overall quality of life
Specialized genetic testing and care for pancreatic cancer
If pancreatic cancer runs in your family, you or your loved ones may be at an increased risk. Certified genetic counselors in our Gastrointestinal Cancer Genetics Program specialize in hereditary pancreatic cancer. They collaborate with you to ensure the appropriate genetic testing for cancer and develop personalized screening plans. Our experts will help you understand your risk and how to manage it effectively.
Leading the way in pancreatic cancer research and treatment
Scientists, surgeons, and other specialists at Penn Medicine never stop searching for ways to improve pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment. With one of the most active clinical trial programs nationwide, patients at any stage benefit from innovative treatment options.
Our pancreatic cancer experts meet every month to discuss cases with a team of professionals from different specialty areas. By working together, they provide each patient with well-rounded advice to determine the most effective treatment plan. Penn Medicine’s dedication to this collaborative approach and innovation positions us at the forefront of transforming pancreatic cancer care, including leading groundbreaking immunotherapy trials.
Cancer care at Penn Medicine
Our doctors
Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.
Locations
Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.