Two ways to prepare pancreatic cancer patients for surgery

This trial is testing a new strategy for preparing patients with pancreatic head cancer for surgery. Specifically, it compares two different approaches to biliary drainage — a procedure that helps remove excess bile buildup before the cancer surgery happens. The goal is to figure out which approach leads to fewer complications and better long-term outcomes.

When pancreatic head cancer causes severe jaundice (yellowing of the skin), doctors typically drain the bile before surgery to help patients recover better. However, there's disagreement about the best way to do this — whether to measure bilirubin (a waste product) or prealbumin (a protein) to decide when the patient is ready for surgery. This trial will provide clear evidence about which approach works best.