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Pancreas Treatments In Singapore

Dr Thng Yongxian

Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon
MBBS • MMed • MRCS (IRE) • FRCSED • FAMS

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Pancreas Surgery

The pancreas is a vital organ involved in both digestion and blood sugar regulation. It produces enzymes that help break down food, as well as hormones like insulin that manage glucose levels. When the pancreas is affected by conditions such as cysts, tumours, or long-term inflammation, surgery may be considered as part of the treatment plan.

 

Pancreas surgery can involve removing part of the pancreas or addressing nearby structures that may also be affected, such as the bile duct or small intestine. The approach depends on the nature and extent of the condition.

 

Because pancreatic conditions can progress silently, early detection and timely intervention are important. Addressing issues early may help prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes. If you have been diagnosed with a pancreatic condition or are experiencing ongoing symptoms, your doctor may recommend further evaluation to determine if surgery is appropriate.

Pancreas Conditions Treated

Dr Thng manages a range of pancreas-related conditions, from inflammation to complex tumours. Below are some of the common conditions that may require medical or surgical attention:

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that can occur suddenly (acute) or develop over time (chronic). It may lead to abdominal pain, digestive issues, and in severe cases, complications involving nearby organs.

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer often develops silently in the early stages and may only cause symptoms when more advanced. Early detection and assessment by a specialist are essential for guiding appropriate treatment.

Pancreatic Cysts

Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may be discovered incidentally on imaging. While many are benign, some may require monitoring or surgical removal depending on their type and potential risk.

Pancreatic Diagnostic Services

A range of diagnostic tests may be used to assess pancreatic function and identify underlying conditions. These investigations help guide treatment planning and monitor progress where needed.

Blood Tests

Blood tests may include measurements of lipase and amylase, enzymes that rise in cases of pancreatitis. Other tests may assess tumour markers like CA 19-9 and blood glucose or lipid levels, which can be affected by pancreatic dysfunction.

Stool Tests

The faecal elastase test evaluates how well the pancreas is producing digestive enzymes. It is often used to assess pancreatic insufficiency in cases of chronic pancreatitis or unexplained digestive symptoms.

Imaging Studies

Non-invasive imaging such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI help visualise the pancreas and detect inflammation, cysts, or masses. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) allows closer assessment of pancreatic lesions using high-frequency sound waves via an endoscope.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

ERCP combines endoscopy and imaging to evaluate the pancreatic and bile ducts. It is used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, such as relieving blockages or taking tissue samples.

Biopsy

A pancreatic biopsy may be performed when imaging suggests abnormal tissue. This allows for microscopic examination to determine the nature of a lesion or confirm a diagnosis such as pancreatic cancer.

PAC-MANN Blood Test

The PAC-MANN test is a specialised blood test used to evaluate the risk of pancreatic cancer in selected patients. It may be considered in conjunction with other diagnostic tools when clinically appropriate.

If you’ve been advised to undergo pancreatic investigations or have concerns about persistent symptoms, consult our specialist, Dr Thng for a detailed evaluation and personalised care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a doctor for pancreatic symptoms?

You should see a doctor if you have persistent upper abdominal pain, pain that spreads to the back, unexplained weight loss, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, or oily stools. These symptoms may suggest a pancreatic condition that requires further evaluation.

Pancreatic conditions are usually diagnosed with a combination of blood tests, CT scans, MRI scans, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and sometimes ERCP. These tests help identify inflammation, cysts, duct blockage, stones, or abnormal growths in the pancreas.

 

Yes. Many pancreatic conditions can be treated without surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include medication, dietary support, pancreatic enzyme supplements, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures such as EUS or ERCP.

 

EUS, or endoscopic ultrasound, is mainly used to examine the pancreas and obtain detailed images or tissue samples through ultrasound imaging. ERCP, or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, is used to diagnose and treat problems in the pancreatic or bile ducts, such as strictures, stones, or blockages.

The treatment itself depends on the type of procedure performed. Many diagnostic and endoscopic treatments are carried out under sedation, so patients are usually kept comfortable. Your doctor will explain what to expect before the procedure and how any discomfort will be managed afterwards.

 

Recovery time varies depending on the treatment. Some endoscopic procedures involve a short recovery period, while surgery may require a longer stay and more gradual healing. Your specialist will advise you based on the type of treatment performed.

 

Yes. Pancreatitis can recur, especially if the underlying cause is not addressed. Common causes include gallstones, alcohol use, high triglyceride levels, or pancreatic duct abnormalities. Ongoing follow-up may be recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence.

No. Many pancreatic cysts are not cancerous. However, some cysts need monitoring or further evaluation because they may carry a risk of precancerous or cancerous change. Your doctor may recommend imaging follow-up, EUS, or biopsy depending on the type of cyst.

Dr Thng Yongxian

Senior Consultant

HEPATOPANCREATOBILIARY (HPB) & GENERAL SURGEON

MBBS (SG) • MMed (Surg) • MRCS (Ire) • FRCSEd (Gen) • FAMS (Surg)

Dr Thng Yongxian is an experienced HPB and General Surgeon with subspecialty focus in minimally invasive pancreatic surgery, complex HPB procedures, and multidisciplinary pancreas cancer care.
  • Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery
  • National University of Singapore
  • Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland
  • Master of Medicine, General Surgery, Singapore
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore

Dr Thng Yongxian is a fellowship-trained HPB (hepatobiliary and pancreatic) surgeon with pancreas specialisation, recognised for his expertise in minimally invasive pancreatic surgery and advanced laparoscopic techniques. His clinical work spans a wide spectrum of pancreatic, liver, bile duct, and gallbladder conditions, with particular focus on complex HPB procedures.

 

As one of the early adopters of advanced laparoscopic approaches, Dr Thng pioneered the laparoscopic programme for his hospital and continues to contribute to the development of HPB procedures in Singapore. His experience includes laparoscopic pancreatic procedures, complex liver and pancreas surgeries such as minimally invasive Whipple (pancreaticoduodenectomy) and distal pancreatectomy, as well as multidisciplinary management of pancreatic cancer and benign pancreatic diseases.

 

Building on this foundation, he developed his subspecialty skills at the Department of HPB Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, and further refined his minimally invasive expertise through a clinical fellowship at Seoul National University Hospital in South Korea. His clinical practice spans both public institutions, such as the National University Health System, and private hospitals including Mount Elizabeth, Mount Elizabeth Novena, Thomson Medical, and Mount Alvernia.

 

Dr Thng also maintains a strong academic and research profile, with published work, national medical technology grants, and presentations at international surgical meetings. He works closely with gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, and oncologists to deliver multidisciplinary, team-based pancreas cancer care tailored to each patient.

Specialisations:
  • Pancreatic cancer surgery
  • Proficient in Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy)
  • Minimally invasive pancreatic surgery (advanced laparoscopic pancreatic procedures)
  • Distal pancreatectomy
  • Management of acute and chronic pancreatitis
  • Pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts management
  • Spleen-preserving pancreatectomy
  • Complex HPB (hepatobiliary and pancreatic) surgery for liver and pancreas conditions
  • Multidisciplinary pancreas cancer care involving oncology, gastroenterology & radiology teams
Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery
  • National University of Singapore
  • Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland
  • Master of Medicine, General Surgery, Singapore
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore

Corporate & Personal Insurance Plans

Our Clinic Location

Precision Surgical Centre
@ Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block

Precision Surgical Centre @ Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block

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