After surgery for pancreatic cancer, will I have physical limitations? Will my ability to be work be affected? Will treatment be outpatient?
Academic Title: Assistant Professor
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Surgery
It generally takes three to four weeks for patients to feel significantly better and stronger after surgery for pancreatic cancer.
The primary physical limitation is to avoid lifting heavy weight objects for up to six weeks after surgery. Otherwise, patients are encouraged to ambulate (get up and walk) and stay physically active to improve their postoperative recovery course.
Depending upon the type of work you are engaged in, your ability to work may be affected in the short term, though almost all patients are able to go back to work in the long term.
If your doctors recommend postoperative chemotherapy or radiation therapy, these can be administered in the outpatient setting.