Whipple Surgery (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) | Dr. Ashok Kumar

Whipple Surgery (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)

Expert Pancreatic Surgery by Dr. Ashok Kumar, MCh SGPGI

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What is Whipple Surgery?

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) is complex surgery removing pancreatic head, duodenum, common bile duct, and part of stomach. Reconstructs bile and food passages into small intestine. Only curative surgery for pancreatic head cancer.

Indications for Whipple Surgery

  • Pancreatic head cancer
  • Common bile duct cancer
  • Ampullary cancer
  • Benign strictures of bile ducts
  • Traumatic pancreatic injuries

Pre-operative Preparation

Tests & Imaging

  • CT/MRI with contrast
  • Blood work and nutrition assessment
  • Cardiac and respiratory clearance
  • Anesthesia consultation

Diet & Fasting

NPO (nothing by mouth) 6-8 hours before surgery. Bowel preparation not usually required.

Surgical Procedure (Step-by-Step)

Mobilization & Assessment

Opens abdomen, assesses resectability, checks for metastatic disease.

Resection

Removes pancreatic head, duodenum, distal stomach, bile ducts, and associated lymph nodes. Careful dissection preserves blood vessels.

Reconstruction

Creates three anastomoses: pancreaticojejunostomy, hepaticojejunostomy, gastrojejunostomy. Restores digestive continuity.

Recovery Timeline

  • Hospital Stay: 7-10 days
  • Return to Light Activities: 6-8 weeks
  • Full Recovery: 3-4 months
  • Drain/Tube Removal: Varies, typically 1-2 weeks

Success Rate & Complications

Morbidity rate 30-40%. Mortality <5% in experienced centers. Common complications: leakage, delayed gastric emptying, wound infection. Dr. Ashok Kumar's expertise minimizes complications. Success rate for achieving negative margins >90%.

Cost Estimate

Accurate estimate can be obtained from hospital while visiting the doctor. Cost depends on complexity, hospital stay, and post-operative complications. Insurance often covers this cancer surgery.

Why Charak Hospital?

  • Dr. Ashok Kumar: MCh SGPGI with extensive Whipple experience
  • Advanced surgical facilities
  • Multidisciplinary oncology team
  • Comprehensive post-operative support
  • Excellent outcomes and low mortality

Related Conditions

Contact Charak Hospital

Phone: 05226664444

Book Appointment

Dr. Ashok Kumar

Surgical Gastroenterologist

  • MCh - SGPGI
  • FRCS
  • FACS
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