Bile duct cancer starts in the tubes that carry bile from your liver to your small intestine. It can cause symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain and weight loss.
Because these signs often appear late, the best thing you can do especially if you have a risk of bile duct cancer is to see a specialist as soon as possible. You can find them in accredited clinics like this one: https://drtansiongsan.com.sg/bile-duct-cancer/.
Bile duct cancer specialists has deep knowledge of this rare cancer and knows the latest tests and treatments. When you see a specialist early, you stand to benefit from a plan that is tailored to your exact type and stage of tumour.
On this page, we will let you in on the treatment options your bile duct cancer specialist might recommend. But before that;
How does a Specialist Decide on your Treatment Plan?
Every individual case is different. So, the best treatment is that one that’s tailored just for you thus the frequently asked question; how does a specialist decide on your treatment plan?
First, when you visit a bile duct cancer specialist, they will confirm the diagnosis via a biopsy. This involves taking a small tissue sample for lab analysis.
Your bile duct cancer specialist may also order imaging scans like CT, MRI or PET to map the tumour’s exact location. If needed, they may order blood tests to check liver function and tumour markers.
Key factors include where the cancer sits: inside the liver (intrahepatic), at the bile duct junction (perihilar) or further down (distal). Tumour size and staging (how far it has spread) will determine which treatments might work.
If you’re diagnosed with early-stage, small tumours, you may be recommended surgery. If you have a more advanced or widespread case, you may need drug or radiation therapy first for the best treatment outcomes.
The other important considerations when choosing the best treatment for you is your overall health. This is why top bile duct cancer specialists also do inquire about other conditions like diabetes or heart disease. A fit patient may handle complex surgery, while someone with other illnesses may start with milder treatments.
Treatment Options for Bile Duct Cancer
Now that you know how a bile duct cancer specialist can choose a treatment for you, an important question that could be ringing at the back of your mind is; what are the treatment options for bile duct cancer. Surgery is one of the most common options.
When bile duct cancer is caught early, surgery can offer a cure. If recommended surgery, a skilled bile duct cancer specilist may remove the tumour and surrounding tissue. Common surgical options include:
- Liver Resection: This involves removing part of your liver containing the cancer. It works best for intrahepatic tumours that have not spread to major vessels. After surgery, most healthy liver regrows over weeks.
- Bile Duct Resection: For tumours in the bile duct itself, your bile duct cancer specialist can remove the affected segment and reconnect healthy duct ends. You may need a small piece of intestine to rebuild the bile pathway. This procedure relieves bile blockage and treats the cancer directly.
- Whipple Procedure: Also called pancreaticoduodenectomy, this complex surgery removes the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, gallbladder and bile duct. It suits tumours near the pancreas junction. Experienced centres manage it with advanced techniques to reduce complications. You can expect about two weeks in hospital, followed by months of gradual recovery.
Surgery isn’t the only option for bile duct cancer. A skilled specialist can offer several non-surgical approaches when surgery alone isn’t enough or isn’t possible. Here are some non-surgical treatment options for bile duct cancer;
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. In bile duct cancer, common drugs include gemcitabine and cisplatin, given via vein. These can shrink tumours before surgery or control spread when surgery isn’t an option. Side effects vary but generally includes nausea, low blood counts and fatigue.
- Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to target cancer cells. It may follow surgery to destroy leftover cells or serve as the main treatment if surgery isn’t possible. Techniques like external beam radiation focus beams precisely, sparing healthy tissue. Treatment happens over several weeks in outpatient sessions. Common side effects include skin redness and tiredness, which usually pass after treatment ends.
- Targeted Therapy: These drugs block specific molecules that fuel cancer growth. Specialists test tumours for mutations like FGFR2 or IDH1. If your tumour carries these changes, you may get oral or intravenous targeted agents. Side effects are often milder than traditional chemo, but you still need regular blood tests to watch liver function and blood counts.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy drugs unleash your immune system against cancer cells. They suit advanced cases or tumours with high microsatellite instability (MSI). While not yet standard for all bile duct cancers, trials show great promise. Your specialist will discuss your eligibility and monitor you for side effects like immune-related inflammation.
- Palliative Treatments: When cure isn’t possible, you may be recommended palliative care for comfort. Your bile duct cancer specialist may place bile duct stents to relieve blockage and jaundice. They manage pain with drugs or nerve blocks, and drain fluid buildup if needed. The goal is to keep you comfortable and maintain quality of life.
Closing Thoughts
Bile duct cancer can feel overwhelming, but seeing a specialised team gives you the best shot at a personalised plan. From potentially curative surgery to drug and radiation treatments, a top bile duct cancer specialist can match options to your tumour’s type, location and stage.
If you are worried about bile duct cancer but ready to explore your treatment options, please schedule a consultation with our bile duct cancer specialists today. We’ll review your diagnosis, discuss tailored plans and connect you to the latest therapies and clinical trials.
Let our expert team support you with clear guidance, compassionate care and a strategy designed around your goals. Contact us now to take the first step toward personalised cancer care and regain control of your health. Details below;
Tan Siong San Surgery
38 Irrawaddy Rd, #09-58 Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre,
Singapore 329563
Phone: +65 6970 8852
