FAQ’s
FAQ’s FOR GALLBLADDER & BILIARY CANCERS
1. What symptoms suggest gallbladder cancer in early stages?
Gallbladder cancer may begin with vague symptoms like upper abdominal pain, nausea, or unexplained weight loss, which many patients in India mistake for acidity or gallstones. Jaundice, persistent vomiting, or a lump in the right upper abdomen can appear in later stages. If symptoms persist, it’s best to meet an oncosurgeon experienced in gallbladder cancer treatment in Mumbai.
2. How do doctors differentiate a benign gallbladder polyp from a cancerous one?
Doctors evaluate polyp size, shape, and growth over time using ultrasound, CT, or MRI. Polyps above 1 cm or those showing rapid increase in size have a higher cancer risk. In India, many surgeons recommend removal if high-risk features are seen. Connect with a specialist in hepatobiliary surgery in Mumbai.
3. Can chronic gallstones eventually lead to gallbladder cancer?
Yes, long-standing gallstones cause chronic irritation and inflammation, increasing cancer risk, especially in North India and states with high gallbladder cancer prevalence. While most gallstone patients will not develop cancer, those with symptoms should consider early evaluation by a gallbladder cancer surgeon.
4. What tests confirm gallbladder cancer — and which is most accurate?
Ultrasound is usually the first test, but CT scan, MRI, and PET-CT provide more detailed information about spread. In India, PET-CT is increasingly used to decide operability. A specialist will choose the test based on symptoms and stage, so consulting a GI cancer specialist is essential.
5. When is gallbladder cancer considered operable?
Gallbladder cancer is operable only when the tumour is limited to the gallbladder or nearby tissue and has not invaded major vessels or distant organs. Early diagnosis greatly improves surgical chances, so timely evaluation by an oncosurgeon in Mumbai is crucial.
6. How do biliary tract cancers differ from traditional gallbladder cancers?
Biliary cancers originate in the bile ducts and often present with jaundice earlier than gallbladder cancer. These cancers require highly specialized imaging and surgery, often performed at tertiary centers in Mumbai. Patients typically benefit from evaluation by a hepatobiliary (HPB) surgeon.
7. Does gallbladder cancer spread to the liver faster than other cancers?
Yes, due to its close anatomical relationship, gallbladder cancer can spread to the liver early. This is why early detection and prompt surgical planning are critical. Patients should seek an experienced liver and gallbladder cancer surgeon.
8. What are the surgical options for bile duct (cholangiocarcinoma) cancers?
Surgical options include bile duct excision, liver resection, or complex reconstruction depending on tumour location. In Mumbai, minimally invasive and robotic options are available in select centers. Patients should meet a specialist in biliary cancer surgery.
9. Can advanced gallbladder cancer still be treated with surgery?
Advanced gallbladder cancer is generally challenging to operate, but select cases may still benefit from surgery after chemotherapy. Decisions depend on PET-CT findings and tumour biology. Consultation with an advanced GI cancer surgeon in Mumbai helps determine candidacy
10. What is the role of PET-CT in gallbladder cancer?
PET-CT helps identify hidden spread, assess operability, and guide treatment planning. In India, it is now standard for staging advanced biliary cancers before major surgery. It is especially useful before planning curative gallbladder cancer surgery.
11. How effective is chemotherapy for biliary cancers?
Chemotherapy can shrink tumours, control symptoms, and improve survival, particularly when surgery is not immediately possible. It is often combined with targeted therapy in India. Treatment is usually coordinated by a multidisciplinary cancer team.
12. How quickly should I start treatment after a gallbladder cancer diagnosis?
Because gallbladder cancer can progress rapidly, treatment ideally begins within a few weeks after diagnosis. A quick evaluation by an oncosurgeon in Mumbai ensures timely planning.
13. Can removed gallbladder tissue show hidden cancer?
Yes, some patients undergoing routine gallbladder removal for stones discover incidental cancer on biopsy. This requires further staging and sometimes a second surgery by a GI cancer specialist.
14. What is the survival outlook for biliary cancers in India?
Survival depends on stage, operability, tumour biology, and access to specialised care. Early-stage cancers treated surgically at experienced centres in Mumbai generally have better outcomes. Choosing a high-volume HPB surgeon improves prognosis.
15. Can gallbladder cancer be prevented in people with high-risk factors?
Removing symptomatic gallbladders, controlling chronic infections, and early imaging in high-risk regions can reduce risk. People with recurring gallstone problems should consult a specialist in gallbladder disease.
FAQ FOR PANCREATIC CANCER
1. Why is pancreatic cancer often detected at an advanced stage?
Pancreatic cancer usually develops deep inside the abdomen and early symptoms—such as mild indigestion or back pain—are easily mistaken for common digestive issues in India. Because early-stage tumours rarely cause obvious symptoms, many patients in Mumbai discover it only during advanced imaging. Regular screening is advised for high-risk individuals through a pancreatic cancer specialist.
2. What are the earliest signs that may indicate pancreatic cancer?
Early signs include unexplained weight loss, appetite loss, new-onset diabetes, or persistent upper abdominal pain radiating to the back. Some patients may also develop jaundice as the tumour blocks bile flow. If these symptoms persist for weeks, an evaluation with an HPB cancer surgeon in Mumbai is recommended.
3. How do doctors check whether pancreatic cancer has spread?
Doctors use CT scan, MRI, PET-CT, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to assess tumour size, lymph node involvement, and distant spread. These tests help decide if surgery is possible. In advanced centres across Mumbai, operability is often discussed in multidisciplinary tumour boards.
4. What is the Whipple procedure and who needs it?
The Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) is a complex surgery performed when a tumour arises in the head of the pancreas. It involves removing part of the pancreas, bile duct, and small intestine, followed by reconstruction. This surgery should be performed only by an experienced pancreatic cancer surgeon due to its complexity.
5. What is the difference between Whipple surgery and distal pancreatectomy?
Whipple surgery is done for tumours in the pancreatic head, while distal pancreatectomy is used for tumours in the body or tail. Distal surgery is often simpler and may preserve spleen function if possible. Patients can discuss both options during evaluation with a GI and HPB oncology expert.
6. Can pancreatic cancer be treated without surgery?
For tumours that are unresectable or have spread, treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and supportive care. In India, many patients also undergo neoadjuvant therapy to shrink tumours before evaluating for surgery again. An oncosurgeon specialising in pancreatic cancer will guide the best approach.
7. What is borderline resectable pancreatic cancer?
This means the tumour is touching nearby vessels, making immediate surgery risky, but still potentially operable after chemotherapy or chemoradiation. Mumbai centres increasingly use this approach to improve surgical success. This condition requires evaluation by a high-volume pancreatic surgery team.
8. How long does hospitalization last after pancreatic cancer surgery?
Most patients stay 7–12 days in the hospital after Whipple surgery, depending on recovery and nutritional adaptation. Centres in Mumbai with enhanced recovery protocols may reduce this duration. Follow-up is ideally continued with a pancreatic cancer surgeon.
9. What nutritional problems occur after removal of part of the pancreas?
Patients may experience digestion issues, difficulty processing fats, and sometimes unstable blood sugar. Enzyme supplements and a structured diet plan improve recovery. Guidance from a GI nutrition clinic is helpful after surgery.
10. Can pancreatic cancer cause diabetes or worsen existing diabetes?
Yes. Tumours can interfere with insulin production, leading to new-onset diabetes, especially in older patients in India. After surgery, some patients require medication or insulin management. A multidisciplinary team including endocrinologists usually oversees care.
11. What is the risk of pancreatic cancer returning after surgery?
Recurrence risk depends on tumour stage, margin clearance, and overall biology. Adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery significantly improves survival outcomes. Regular follow-up scans with an HPB cancer specialist in Mumbai help detect recurrence early.
12. How effective is chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer in India?
Chemotherapy helps shrink tumours, control symptoms, and increase survival. Modern regimens available in Mumbai cancer centres offer better results than older therapies. A medical oncologist working closely with a pancreas surgeon helps plan optimal treatment.
13. What is the average cost of pancreatic cancer treatment in Mumbai?
Treatment costs depend on surgery type, hospital category, ICU stay, chemotherapy cycles, and supportive care. Whipple surgery typically has a higher cost due to complexity. Patients can discuss estimates with a pancreatic cancer treatment centre in Mumbai.
14. Do pancreatic cysts always turn into cancer?
No, most pancreatic cysts are benign, but some types (like IPMNs) have a higher risk of becoming cancerous. Regular follow-up imaging is essential. High-risk cysts should be evaluated by a specialist in pancreatic cyst management.
FAQ FOR LIVER CANCER
What early symptoms of liver cancer are commonly overlooked?
Early liver cancer often shows mild symptoms like fatigue, bloating, or discomfort on the right side of the abdomen—many Indians confuse this with acidity, gas, or fatty liver. Unexplained weight loss and appetite reduction may also appear. If these signs persist, evaluation by a liver cancer specialist in Mumbai (internal link: liver cancer page) is important for early diagnosis.
Can liver cirrhosis or hepatitis B/C lead to liver cancer?
Yes. Long-term hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and cirrhosis are the most common causes of liver cancer in India. These conditions cause chronic inflammation and scarring, increasing tumour risk. Regular ultrasound and AFP tests are advised for high-risk individuals under a hepatobiliary (HPB) surgeon
Watch To Learn More: https://youtu.be/ItSHbvSBz8E?si=mMR0YXTqdlQQJxEE
How is operability assessed for liver cancer patients?
Doctors check tumour size, number, location, liver function, and overall health to decide if surgery is safe. CT, MRI, and sometimes PET scans are used. In Mumbai, operability decisions are often made in multidisciplinary tumour board meetings (internal link: tumour board page) to ensure accuracy.
What is liver resection and when is it recommended?
Liver resection is a surgery that removes the tumour along with a safe margin of healthy tissue. It is recommended when the cancer is localized and liver function is good. Minimally invasive techniques are available at specialized centres. It is best performed by an experienced liver cancer surgeon.
When is liver transplant the preferred treatment for liver cancer?
Transplant is considered when the tumour meets specific criteria (like Milan criteria) and the liver is cirrhotic or too damaged for resection. In India, transplant may offer the best chance of long-term survival for selected patients. Evaluation is done by a liver transplant team.
Does fatty liver disease increase the risk of liver cancer?
Yes. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), increasingly common in Mumbai due to lifestyle habits, can progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Regular screening and lifestyle modification help reduce risk. Patients with chronic fatty liver should consult a liver disease specialist.
How effective are minimally invasive liver surgeries in complex tumors?
Laparoscopic and robotic liver surgeries offer smaller cuts, faster recovery, and less pain while maintaining surgical precision. They are suitable for many early-stage tumours, depending on size and location. Patients should discuss eligibility with a minimally invasive liver surgeon.
What tests determine the stage of liver cancer?
Staging involves contrast CT, MRI, AFP blood test, and occasionally PET-CT to check spread. These tests help choose between surgery, ablation, TACE, or transplant. Staging should always be done under guidance of a liver cancer expert in Mumbai.
How fast does liver cancer progress compared to other abdominal cancers?
Liver cancer can progress quickly, especially in patients with cirrhosis or hepatitis. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment options. Regular surveillance every 6 months is recommended. An HPB cancer specialist can advise the right schedule.
Can liver cancer be treated without removing part of the liver?
Yes. Non-surgical options like TACE, RFA, microwave ablation, systemic therapy, and immunotherapy can treat selected cases. These are especially useful for patients who cannot undergo surgery. Treatment is best planned in a liver cancer multidisciplinary clinic.
What is the impact of portal hypertension on liver cancer treatment?
Portal hypertension may limit surgical options because it increases bleeding and complication risks. In such cases, transplant or non-surgical therapies may be safer. A personalised assessment by a hepatobiliary surgeon helps decide the safest plan.
Do all liver cancer patients need TACE, RFA, or ablation?
Not all patients require these procedures. They are used when surgery is not possible or as a bridge to transplant. Treatment choice depends on tumour size, number, and liver function. Consultation with a liver interventional oncology team is recommended.
How often should liver cancer patients undergo surveillance scans?
After treatment, scans and AFP tests are typically done every 3–6 months for the first two years, then annually. This helps detect recurrence early. Follow-up should be coordinated by a liver cancer surgeon or oncologist in Mumbai.
What lifestyle changes help after liver cancer surgery?
Patients are advised to avoid alcohol, eat a balanced protein-rich diet, maintain healthy weight, and manage diabetes or hepatitis carefully. Regular follow-up and liver-friendly habits support long-term recovery. A post-liver surgery rehabilitation program can help.
Can liver cancer be cured completely if detected early?
Yes, early-stage liver cancer treated with resection or transplant has excellent long-term outcomes. The key is timely diagnosis through screening, especially in high-risk patients. Early evaluation by a liver cancer specialist in Mumbai offers the best chance of cure.
FAQ FOR GASTRIC CANCER
What are the earliest warning signs of stomach cancer in Indian patients?
Early stomach cancer often causes nonspecific symptoms like persistent acidity, bloating, early fullness, or mild upper abdominal pain — symptoms commonly mistaken for gastritis in India. Unintentional weight loss or black stools may also occur. If symptoms persist despite medication, consulting a gastric cancer specialist in Mumbai is essential.
Can long-term acidity or gastritis lead to stomach cancer?
Chronic gastritis, especially due to untreated H. pylori infection, increases the risk of gastric cancer. Long-term use of antacids without proper diagnosis can delay detection. Patients with recurring acidity issues should undergo endoscopy under a GI oncology expert.
How accurate is endoscopy in diagnosing gastric cancer?
Endoscopy is the most accurate test for detecting stomach cancer because it allows direct visualization and biopsy. In Mumbai, endoscopy with advanced imaging (NBI) improves detection of early lesions. Always have biopsies reviewed by a cancer-trained pathologist.
What is D2 lymphadenectomy and why is it important?
D2 lymphadenectomy involves removal of specific lymph nodes around the stomach and is the global standard for curative gastric cancer surgery. It significantly improves staging accuracy and survival when performed by an experienced gastric cancer surgeon.
When do stomach cancer patients need total gastrectomy?
Total gastrectomy is recommended when the tumour involves the upper or middle part of the stomach or when margins cannot be safely achieved with partial removal. The procedure requires expertise in reconstruction and nutrition planning. Patients should seek care from a high-volume GI cancer centre.
How do robotic and laparoscopic gastric surgeries differ?
Both approaches use small cuts, but robotic surgery provides better precision and flexibility, especially in tight spaces. Many centres in Mumbai offer robotic gastrectomy for suitable cases. Discuss options with a minimally invasive gastric cancer surgeon.
How long does digestion take to normalize after stomach cancer surgery?
Most patients need several weeks to adapt to smaller food portions and modified eating patterns. Symptoms like early fullness or reflux gradually improve with diet adjustments. A post-gastrectomy diet counselling program accelerates recovery.
What foods should be eaten immediately after gastrectomy?
Soft, easy-to-digest foods such as soups, porridge, mashed vegetables, and small protein-rich meals are recommended. Patients should avoid spicy, oily, or very sweet foods initially, which are common triggers in India. A GI nutrition specialist can guide a personalised plan.
What postoperative complications are most common in gastric cancer surgery?
Possible complications include leakage at the join, delayed gastric emptying, infection, and nutritional deficiencies. The risk is lower in centres with experienced teams and enhanced recovery protocols. Follow-up with a gastric cancer surgery team is essential.
Why do some stomach cancer patients develop anemia?
Anemia may occur due to chronic blood loss, poor absorption of nutrients like iron and B12, or reduced intake after surgery. Regular monitoring and supplementation help manage these issues. A post-gastrectomy follow-up clinic ensures timely correction.
What is the prognosis of stomach cancer diagnosed at Stage 2?
Stage 2 gastric cancer generally has a good prognosis when treated with surgery followed by chemotherapy. Early intervention in experienced Mumbai centres significantly improves long-term outcomes. Care under a specialised gastric cancer surgeon is crucial.
Can stomach cancer spread to nearby organs before symptoms appear?
Yes, gastric cancer may spread to lymph nodes, liver, or peritoneum without causing strong early symptoms. This is why persistent indigestion or unexplained weight loss should not be ignored. Comprehensive evaluation by a GI oncology specialist in Mumbai is advised.
What is the expected hospital stay for gastric cancer surgery?
Most patients stay 5–8 days after gastrectomy, depending on recovery, nutritional intake, and the type of surgery (open, laparoscopic, robotic). Centres using ERAS protocols may shorten stay. Continued follow-up is managed by a gastric cancer team.
How soon can I return to work after a gastrectomy?
Patients typically resume light activities within 3–4 weeks and return to normal work within 6–8 weeks, depending on the surgery type and overall health. Detailed recovery planning is provided by a GI surgical team.
Does H. pylori eradication reduce stomach cancer risk?
Yes, treating H. pylori infection significantly reduces long-term gastric cancer risk, especially in patients with chronic gastritis. Early detection and treatment are strongly recommended in India. Patients should consult a stomach cancer prevention clinic.
FAQ FOR COLORECTAL CANCER
What early symptoms differentiate colorectal cancer from common digestive issues?
Colorectal cancer may start with subtle signs such as persistent changes in bowel habits, blood or mucus in stools, unexplained weight loss, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Many Indian patients assume it’s piles or IBS, delaying diagnosis. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a colorectal cancer specialist in Mumbai.
What age should Indians start screening for colorectal cancer?
Most guidelines recommend starting screening at age 45, but individuals with family history, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease may need earlier screening. In Mumbai, colonoscopy is the most reliable tool. Visit a GI oncology screening clinic for personalised advice.
What types of colon polyps are most likely to turn cancerous?
Adenomatous polyps, serrated polyps, and large polyps (>1 cm) have a higher risk of becoming cancerous. Regular surveillance and removal significantly reduce risk. Polyps discovered during colonoscopy should be reviewed by a cancer-trained pathologist.
How is colorectal cancer staged using CT, MRI, and colonoscopy?
Diagnosis starts with colonoscopy and biopsy, followed by CT scan to check spread and MRI for rectal cancer staging. This helps decide if surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy is needed. Staging is best coordinated by a multidisciplinary colorectal cancer team.
What factors make a colorectal tumour inoperable?
Tumours that invade major vessels, spread to distant organs, or cause severe medical complications may not be surgically removable. However, some cases become operable after chemotherapy. Patients should seek an opinion from a high-volume colorectal surgeon.
How effective is laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery provides smaller incisions, less pain, quicker recovery, and equivalent cancer control compared to open surgery. Many Mumbai centres now offer this as a standard treatment for early and mid-stage disease. Consult a minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgeon
When is a colostomy or ileostomy necessary?
A stoma may be required when the tumour is too close to the anal sphincter, healing could be compromised, or the intestine needs temporary rest after surgery. Most stomas are temporary. A colorectal surgery specialist stoma counselling can explain individual needs.
What bowel changes can occur after colorectal cancer surgery?
Patients may experience increased frequency, urgency, constipation, or irregular patterns in the initial weeks. These usually improve with diet and medication. A structured recovery plan guided by a post-colorectal surgery rehabilitation team helps faster adaptation.
How likely is colorectal cancer recurrence after complete removal?
Recurrence risk depends on stage, lymph node involvement, and tumour biology. Regular follow-up with scans and blood tests every 6–12 months helps early detection. Surveillance should be managed by a colorectal cancer specialist in Mumbai.
Can colorectal cancer be managed without major surgery?
Some early rectal cancers may be treated with local excision, radiation, or chemotherapy. For advanced cases, non-surgical treatments help reduce symptoms and control tumour growth. A personalised plan is best created with a GI oncology team.
Watch Video: https://youtu.be/kzVoyMRM0DA?si=PMtaLxFhRweXL7HB
Does every rectal cancer patient need chemoradiation?
Chemoradiation is typically used for locally advanced rectal cancers to shrink the tumour before surgery. Early-stage cancers may not require it. Treatment decisions depend on MRI staging and tumour location. Consult a rectal cancer specialist.
What is the risk of colorectal cancer spreading to lymph nodes first?
Colorectal cancer commonly spreads to lymph nodes before distant organs. This is why complete lymph node removal during surgery is essential. Experienced colorectal cancer surgeons ensure appropriate cancer clearance.
What is the approximate cost of rectal cancer surgery in Mumbai?
Costs vary based on hospital type, surgical approach (open, laparoscopic, robotic), ICU stay, and additional treatments. Mumbai centres offer options suited to different budgets. Patients can request estimates through a colorectal cancer treatment clinic.
How soon should surgery be done after diagnosis of colon cancer?
Once diagnosis and staging are complete, surgery is ideally performed within 2–3 weeks unless preoperative therapy is required. Delay may allow the tumour to progress. Early scheduling with a colon cancer surgeon in Mumbai ensures timely care.
What lifestyle habits help reduce risk of colorectal cancer after treatment?
A balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting red or processed meats significantly reduce recurrence risk. Regular follow-up and early management of symptoms also help. Guidance is often provided by a cancer survivorship program.
