Treatment

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Surgery

Overview

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition where tumors called gastrinomas form in the pancreas or small intestine. These tumors release too much gastrin, a hormone that causes the stomach to produce excess acid. This leads to painful and recurring peptic ulcers, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. Surgery for Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome is often considered when tumors are located and can be removed, offering a potential long-term cure or significant symptom relief.

Why Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Surgery Treatment is Required?

• Tumors may be cancerous or could turn malignant over time.
• Non-surgical treatments may not effectively control acid levels or tumor growth.
• Surgery allows for Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome tumor removal, reducing gastrin levels.
• Helps manage severe symptoms like abdominal pain, ulcers and chronic diarrhea.
• Prevents long-term complications from excess stomach acid.

Key Advantages of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Surgery Treatment

• Potential for cure if the gastrinoma is completely removed.
• Reduces the need for lifelong medication or acid suppression therapy.
• Improves quality of life by eliminating severe digestive symptoms.
• Helps detect other hidden tumors during the procedure.
• Offers a chance for long-term remission in selected patients.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Surgery Treatment

• Complete blood tests to check gastrin levels.
• Imaging tests like CT scan, MRI or endoscopic ultrasound to locate tumors.
• Discuss any medications, especially acid-reducing drugs or blood thinners.
• Follow dietary restrictions or fasting as instructed.
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol to support healing.
• Prepare mentally for recovery time and possible hospital stay.

How Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome Surgery Treatment is Performed?

• Surgery is done under general anesthesia in a sterile operating room.
• Surgeons locate and remove gastrin-secreting tumors (gastrinomas).
• If tumors are small or located in the pancreas or duodenum, minimally invasive techniques may be used.
• In complex cases, open surgery may be needed to explore nearby lymph nodes or the liver.
• Post-surgery, the area is carefully checked for bleeding or leakage before closure.

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before the Procedure:
• Hospital admission a day prior or same-day of surgery.
• Pre-operative tests and fasting for 6–8 hours.
• IV line setup for fluids and medication.
• During the Procedure:
• You will be fully asleep (under anesthesia).
• Surgery duration may range from 2 to 5 hours.
• Surgical team carefully removes visible tumors.
• After the Procedure:
• Monitoring in recovery or ICU for a short period.
• Pain control, IV fluids, and antibiotics given as needed.
• Gradual return to oral diet.
• Discharge in 3–7 days depending on recovery.
• Regular follow-up for tumor markers and healing.

Risk and Potential Complications

• Infection or bleeding at the surgical site.
• Damage to nearby organs (pancreas, intestine).
• Difficulty in completely removing all tumors.
• Long-term need for acid-suppressing medications.
• Delayed gastric emptying or digestive issues.
• Risk of tumor recurrence in some cases.

Results/Outcomes

• Many patients experience long-term relief from symptoms.
• Tumor removal helps lower gastrin levels and heal ulcers.
• In cases with complete removal, there’s a possibility of permanent cure.
• Even partial removal improves symptom control.
• Regular monitoring ensures early detection of recurrence if it happens.