Long-term, there are a couple of potential complications that are rather commonly associated with pancreatic resection (particularly as one grows older). The two most common side effects of pancreatectomy are diabetes and "pancreatic exocrine deficiency."

Diabetes occurs when the remaining pancreas does not produce enough insulin, causing an increase in blood sugar (glucose) levels, and reducing the body's supply of energy (please see my recent column on diabetes, as it discusses the signs and symptoms of diabetes in some detail).

Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency arises when the remaining pancreas cannot produce enough of the pancreatic digestive enzymes that aid in the digestions of fat and protein in the intestines. In this case, patients often report increased bloating, gassiness, and nauseas; as well as passing loose, greasy stools. In most cases, pancreatic exocrine deficiency can be treated by taking pancreatic enzymes, in capsule form, with meals.

You should probably be evaluated by a GI doctor, so that you can be assessed for the possibility of either of these two pancreatectomy-related syndromes.

Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS

http://doctorwascher.com

I received a pretty good response from Dr. Robert Wacher regarding the quote below, but I forgot to say I also had a spenectomy, or NO SPLEEN. And, could this also create an obstacle after 23-24 years? This is important, because I am not capable of a 40 or more hour per week job, as I get too tired. I also catch colds and takes longer to heal. Thanks.