Enucleation: In this procedure the

Enucleation: In this procedure the surgeon removes only the tumor preserving the rest of the pancreas. Since insulinomas usually occur on the surface of the pancreas and are covered by a capsule, they can be completely removed without having to remove any of the surrounding pancreas. At USC we have developed a laparoscopic procedure for enucleation of pancreatic insulinoma.The recurrence rate after enucleation of the insulinoma is very low and this is the treatment of choice if it is technically possible to perform this operation.
Pancreatic resection (removal): Less commonly the surgeon may remove part of the pancreas where the tumor is located by utilizing operative procedures such as a distal pancreatectomy or a Whipple operation. These operations are performed as an exception rather than commonly since the vast majority of the tumors can be removed with enucleation.
Laparoscopic operations: At USC we offer a laparoscopic procedure for removing pancreatic insulinoma. The operation of enucleation of the insulinoma is performed laparoscopically. With laparoscopic surgery the post-operative recovery period and amount of pain is reduced, hospital stay is shorter and patients are able to return to their normal activity much faster.