Treating pancreatic cancer involves a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals who collaborate to provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis through to treatment and ongoing management. Here are the key doctors and departments involved in the treatment of pancreatic cancer:

1. Gastroenterologist: Gastroenterologists specialises in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system, including pancreatic cancer. They play a crucial role in performing diagnostic procedures such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to visualise the pancreas, obtain tissue samples for biopsy, and assess the extent of the cancer.

2. Surgical Oncologist: Surgical oncologists are specialised surgeons who perform operations to remove pancreatic tumours. Depending on the location and stage of the cancer, surgical procedures may include pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure), distal pancreatectomy, or total pancreatectomy. Surgical oncologists work to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy pancreatic tissue and function as possible.

3. Medical Oncologist: Medical oncologists specialise in treating cancer using systemic therapies such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. They develop personalised treatment plans based on the stage of the cancer, tumour characteristics, and the patient’s overall health. Medical oncologists oversee chemotherapy regimens, monitor treatment response, manage side effects, and adjust therapies as needed.

4. Radiation Oncologist: Radiation oncologists specialise in using radiation therapy to target and destroy cancer cells. They may use techniques such as external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to deliver precise doses of radiation to pancreatic tumours. Radiation therapy may be used alone or in combination with surgery and/or chemotherapy to treat pancreatic cancer and alleviate symptoms.

5. Multidisciplinary Tumour Board: A multidisciplinary tumour board brings together specialists from various disciplines, including gastroenterology, oncology, surgery, radiology, pathology, and supportive care. This collaborative approach ensures that treatment plans are comprehensive, evidence-based, and tailored to the individual needs of each patient with pancreatic cancer.

In summary, the treatment of pancreatic cancer requires a coordinated effort among a diverse team of healthcare professionals who specialise in different aspects of cancer care. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive evaluation, personalised treatment planning, and ongoing support to optimise outcomes and quality of life throughout their cancer journey.