What is the Whipple procedure?
The Whipple procedure, also known as a major vascular reconstruction, is most often performed when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. This surgery operates on pancreatic tumors as long the cancer has remained within the pancreas and not spread further. Whipple procedure can also be used for certain pancreatic diseases such as:
- Pancreatic cysts
- Pancreatitis
- Damage to the pancreas
- Bile duct diseases or cancer
The procedure involves removing the head of your pancreas, part of the small intestine, gall bladder and bile duct. After removed, the remaining part of the pancreas, small intestine and bile duct are then reconnected to the stomach for regulation of digestion.
What are the types of Whipple procedures?
There are two ways for a surgeon to approach a Whipple surgery: open surgery vs robotic surgery:
- Open Whipple surgery: this is the traditional operation that is still used for extensive pancreas had tumors that involve blood vessels.
- Robotic Whipple surgery: this is a minimally invasive approach involving a few small incisions. A robotic is then sent through the incisions and the surgeon operates off a console nearby. This device allows for more meticulous work in small spaces. This minimally invasive approach allows for a quicker recovery and reduced postoperative pain. This article is being applied selectively.
What are the risks of Whipple procedure?
This is an extensive operation that carries significant morbidity and mortality. The major risks are deep surgical site infections leading to bleeding, breakdown of joints between the pancreas and intestine as well as delayed gastric emptying. Although the typical stay for a Whipple procedure is seven to 10 days, a much longer stay maybe necessary when complications arise. This care is provided in the setting of a multistory team that can take care of the myriad of complications so that patients can make a swift recovery.