“What are the side effects of having your pancreas removed?”
I am a 34 year old female. I want to know what are the side effects of having your pancreas removed?
3 Answers
GastroenterologistGastroenterologist
The pancreas makes enzymes to digest fats and protein, plus it produces insulin. Therefore, not having a pancreas will cause malabsorption of fats/protein and will result in diabetes.
You have to take the enzymes that the pancreas would normally produce.
You lose the digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas. All exocrine and endocrine pancreatic functions are lost with a total pancreatectomy. The doctors who are suggesting this treatment must discuss all possible side effects and any questions you have about this serious condition.
