Life Expectancy of Portal Vein Cancer?

Question

My father-in-law was recently diagnosed with bile duct cancer. He underwent surgery to have the bile duct removed and whipple surgery. The doc could not do the whipple surgery. The cancer had spread to over 1/2 of the pancreas, the lymph nodes, and had encapsulated the portal vein. Can anyone tell me an estimate of the amount of time that we have left with him? I know that it is only an estimate as only God knows when you're really going to go. Any info is greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

Wow I am not sure I would guess maybe a few months but it also depends on how fast it is spreading. I am so sorry to hear that.  Good Luck and God be with you all

Answer 2

I am sorry about your father in law and that he had to undergone surgery or at attempted surgery for no reason. I don’t know how they could not have known ahead of time.

Even when they are able to completely remove these tumors the 5year survival rate is about 12%. With the extent of his disease you probably have 3-4 months.

If his doctor has not already suggested hospice I think you should bring it up to him or her. They are wonderful people who specialize in dealing with patients at the end of their lives. They not only work with the patient, but with the whole family and he can be at home if he wishes. I have included some links below to give you a better understanding of what they do.

http://www.hospicenet.org/

http://www.hospicefoundation.org/