Also called
- pancreaticoduodenectomy
- classic pancreaticoduodenectomy
The Whipple procedure is a complex surgical procedure involving the pancreas, duodenum and other organs.
Why a Whipple procedure is done
A Whipple procedure may be used to treat:
- localized cancer of the head of the pancreas
- small intestine tumours of the proximal duodenum (intestine closest to the stomach) or the ampulla of Vater (area where the ducts from the pancreas and liver enter the duodenum)
How a Whipple procedure is done
The following are removed:
- the head and/or the body of the pancreas
- a section of the lower part of the stomach
- the duodenum (first part of the small intestine)
- a section of jejunum (middle part of the small intestine)
- the gallbladder
- part of the common bile duct (the duct that carries bile to the duodenum)
- surrounding lymph nodes
After these organs have been removed, the surgeon attaches the remaining end of the stomach to the jejunum (called a gastrojejunostomy). The common bile duct and the remainder of the pancreas are also attached to the jejunum in different locations. This allows the bile and pancreatic juices to flow into the jejunum to neutralize the stomach acid and reduce the risk of an ulcer in the area. The area of attachment is called an anastomosis.
Potential side effects
The Whipple procedure carries a fairly high risk of complications. Approximately 30–50% of people will develop complications from this surgery. They may include:
- infection
- bleeding
- the leaking of bile, stomach acid or pancreatic juices where the healthy ends of the stomach, duodenum or bile duct were joined to the jejunum
- dumping syndrome (when food moves too fast from the stomach into the small intestine)
- nutritional problems caused by lack of digestive enzymes and bile
- poor fat absorption
- a deficiency in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K)
Follow-up
Post-operative instructions will be provided following surgery to guide the person’s recovery. A follow-up appointment will be made with the doctor.