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Prof. Dr. Stefan Fichtner-Feigl, Medical Director of the Department of General and Visceral Surgery, shares how cutting-edge procedures are making pancreatic surgery safer, less invasive and possible even for cases once thought inoperable.

A pancreatic disease diagnosis can be overwhelming, bringing fear, uncertainty, and difficult questions for patients and their families. But thanks to groundbreaking advancements in surgical techniques, there is new hope.

Minimally Invasive Surgery: Major Impact with Smaller Incisions

Until recently, pancreatic surgery required large abdominal incisions, extended hospital stays, and lengthy recovery periods. However, minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robot-assisted procedures, have transformed the landscape.

These state-of-the-art approaches allow surgeons to perform operations through tiny incisions, reducing post-operative pain, minimizing complications, and enabling a faster return to daily life. Patients undergoing minimally invasive procedures often leave the hospital within days, regaining quality of life much sooner. 

Fast-Track Recovery: A Path to Faster Healing

Surgery is only the beginning of a patient’s journey to recovery. A well-structured recovery process significantly impacts healing and overall outcomes. The Fast-Track Program at the Medical Center – University of Freiburg is designed to accelerate recovery and prevent complications based on evidence-based protocols.

This program starts before surgery, preparing patients physically and emotionally through comprehensive education and prehabilitation. Post-operatively, early mobilization is encouraged with the support of nurses and physiotherapists. Nutritional strategies also play a vital role – rather than prolonged fasting, patients are introduced to early feeding, which stimulates gut function and strengthens the body.

Experience shows that this approach leads to faster recovery, reduced pain, and fewer complications. Many patients who once faced daunting surgical procedures now leave the hospital with renewed confidence and strength within days.

Complex Pancreatic Surgery with Vascular Reconstruction: Making the Impossible Possible

For some patients, a pancreatic tumor may seem inoperable, especially if it has grown around critical blood vessels. Until recently, such cases were considered beyond surgical intervention. However, recent advancements in complex vascular reconstruction have changed the prognosis for many.

Our experienced surgeons have pioneered techniques to remove tumors while simultaneously reconstructing affected blood vessels. This is achieved using artificial vascular grafts or tissue from other parts of the body. These highly specialized procedures offer new hope to patients who previously had little to no surgical options.

The gratitude and renewed optimism of patients who once faced insurmountable odds continue to inspire our surgical team every day. Choosing to undergo surgery is a significant decision, and we understand the challenges that come with it. That’s why we are committed to providing not only the highest level of medical expertise but also personalized care. Every individual is unique, and we tailor each treatment to meet your specific needs. Your trust is our greatest motivation.