Diagnosis Of Portal Vein Cancer

Effective treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on knowing whether the tumor is confined to the pancreas or has spread to nearby organs, nerves or blood vessels. Mayo Clinic specialists use state-of-the-art imaging technologies that provide a level of detail undreamed of just a few decades ago. This helps ensure that you receive the most comprehensive, accurate and rapid evaluation possible.

Technologies used at Mayo Clinic to assess pancreatic cancer include:

Computed tomography (CT) scans

Mayo Clinic is one of a handful of U.S. medical centers using the latest high-definition CT scanners to diagnose and stage tumors. Much like high-definition TVs, the scanners produce exceptionally clear, sharp images throughout the body with 33 percent greater detail than traditional scans. The improved imaging allows doctors to diagnose disease earlier and with greater accuracy. More importantly, scan radiation can be reduced up to 50 percent, a critical benefit for cancer patients.

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)

Mayo Clinic radiologists are noted for their expertise in magnetic resonance colangiopancreatography (MRCP), which uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of your pancreas, liver and bile ducts. This noninvasive test is especially helpful for diagnosing bile duct obstructions and for detecting pancreatic cysts — fluid-filled pockets that can develop on or within the pancreas. Most cysts are benign, but some may become cancerous over time and should be followed by physicians skilled in their management.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

Mayo Clinic physicians have offered EUS for nearly two decades and perform more than 3,000 endoscopic ultrasound examinations every year. During the test, a tiny ultrasound probe is placed in your stomach through an endoscope. The probe produces sound waves that create extremely detailed images of your pancreas, which lies next to the stomach.

Digital analysis of these images can help distinguish cancer from chronic pancreatitis — an ongoing inflammation of the pancreas. During EUS, your doctor may also remove cellular material (fine needle aspiration) or small samples of pancreatic tissue (core biopsy). Mayo is one of the few medical centers in the world performing core biopsies of the pancreas. The biopsies can help distinguish autoimmune pancreatitis from pancreatic cancer. Doctors can also collect pancreatic juices or fluid from precancerous cysts for laboratory analysis. EUS can be technically demanding and produces the best results when performed by an experienced endoscopist.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

ERCP is used to both assess and treat problems in the bile ducts. During a traditional ERCP, doctors inject a dye into the biliary tract through an endoscope before taking a series of X-rays. Traditional ERCP doesn't allow direct observation of the ducts, however, and because X-rays may not provide enough information for a complete diagnosis, some people may need repeat procedures.

Mayo Clinic is one of the few U.S. medical centers using a more advanced form of ERCP called the SpyGlass System. Unlike traditional ERCP, SpyGlass allows your doctor to view the entire biliary tract using a 6,000- pixel fiberoptic probe and to take tissue samples under direct observation. This leads to a far more accurate diagnosis and reduces the need for additional testing.