To provide optimal palliation, determination of resectability must be made. Standard staging studies for resectability include computed tomographic scan, visceral angiography or magnetic resonance imaging scan, laparotomy, and laparoscopy. The introduction of minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound, may decrease the need for laparotomy. Attention to pancreatic enzyme replacement can help alleviate this problem. For additional information, refer to the PDQ supportive care summary on nutrition.
Laparoscopic ultrasound enhances standard laparoscopy in the staging of pancreatic cancer.
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