Surveillance for Pancreatic Cysts

At NYU Langone, surveillance of pancreatic cysts involves regular imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, to monitor the cysts for any changes in size, structure, or risk features. Our doctors also perform physical exams to assess patients’ symptoms and overall wellbeing.

Our team of gastroenterologists, pancreatic surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists ensures personalized care and tailored surveillance schedules based on your risk profile. The decision to pursue surveillance depends on factors such as your health, cyst characteristics, and our doctors’ determination of your risk level based on evidence-based medical guidelines.

Our surveillance program helps patients avoid unnecessary surgery.

Who May Benefit from Pancreatic Cyst Surveillance

Patients who have the following low-risk pancreatic cysts may be eligible for this program:

• intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the branch duct
• mucinous cystic neoplasms
• serous cystic neoplasms
• small, nonfunctional cystic neuroendocrine tumors

When Further Evaluation May Be Needed

Changes in cysts or symptoms or the appearance of new symptoms may require more investigation or treatment. Our doctors may recommend further evaluation if any of the following occurs:

• a larger cyst, especially one more than 3 centimeters in diameter
• the presence of a solid area or nodule within the cyst, which may indicate the presence of precancerous or cancerous or tissue
• a widened main pancreatic duct of 5 millimeters or more, which can be a sign of increased risk
• new symptoms, such as jaundice or acute pancreatitis, without another cause

Our team works with you to create a personalized care plan, which may include further imaging, a biopsy with cyst fluid analysis, continued surveillance, or surgery.