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The Whipple Procedure for Cancer

The Whipple procedure is a surgical treatment for cancer of the pancreas. It is performed when the tumor is located on the head of the pancreas; its goal is to cure the cancer by removing it from the body.

  1. Identification

    • The Whipple procedure is also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy because it removes part of the pancreas and part of the duodenum. The gallbladder and a portion of the bile duct are also removed.

    Before The Surgery

    • Prior to having a Whipple procedure, you will have undergone CAT scans to determine the extent of pancreatic cancer, as cancer that is too advanced cannot be treated with this surgery. Before the surgery, you might be asked to donate blood in case you need it due to complications.

    How It Is Done

    • The Whipple procedure is performed under general anesthesia through a small incision using a laparoscope. The tumor is removed and the GI tract reconstructed in a process that takes 4 to 8 hours.

    After The Procedure

    • Expect to recover in the hospital for up to 10 days after a Whipple procedure. There will be pain from the incision as well as intestinal disturbances until the stomach and intestines have resumed normal function.

    Complimentary Cancer Treatments

    • Your doctor may recommend chemotherapy or radiation treatments after you have had the Whipple procedure for cancer. These additional treatments kill stray cancer cells that may have escaped removal during surgery.

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