Pancreas cysts are fluid filled sacs that develop in the pancreas. While many cysts are benign and do not cause symptoms, some may carry the risk of becoming cancerous. Proper evaluation and monitoring is essential to determine the best course of action. At Texas Health’s pancreatic cyst clinics, we specialize in the assessment, monitoring and evaluation of pancreas cysts. We work closely with gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons to provide comprehensive care for patients.
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What is involved in being part of the pancreatic cyst clinic?
Patients have periodic imaging tests, commonly scheduled every six to 12 months, to screen for issues with a cyst, including any changes that could be a sign of cancer.
Texas Health’s pancreatic cyst clinics provide an individualized, structured approach to pancreas cyst management. We assess the size, location and characteristics of your cyst through imaging studies such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), MRI and CT scans.
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What types of issues are the imaging tests monitoring for my pancreatic cyst? What do imaging tests look for in my pancreas cyst?
The imaging tests monitor changes in your pancreatic cysts. If the imaging test detects any of the below changes, you may require more frequent scans, a biopsy, or surgery:
- if the cyst has increased in size
- if the cyst has new or worrisome features that suggest a higher risk of malignancy
- if the cyst continues in a pattern of growth and is causing pain or pressure on other areas, like the bile duct
if the cyst starts to cause symptoms, such as pain.
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Couldn't I just have surgery to have my pancreatic cysts removed instead of monitoring them?
Not all pancreas cysts require surgery, but they should be monitored regularly to track any changes over time. Often the risk involved in having pancreas surgery is higher than the risk that a pancreatic cyst could cause you harm. Surgery on the pancreas is complex, so surveillance monitoring, which typically involves periodic imaging, is safer unless the cyst has shown signs of growth or concerning features.