One of the essential parts of the process is the determination of eligibility for surgery. Our surgeons will work with your medical team to determine whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body and, as such, whether the pancreas or part thereof can be resected surgically.

How the Whipple Procedure Works

The Whipple procedure is a complex operation involving the removal of a portion of the pancreas, the duodenum, the gallbladder, and the bile duct. Once the surgeon removes these sections, the surgeon then rejoins healthy sections to restore the digestive tract. A pylorus-preserving Whipple procedure keeps the stomach and pyloric valve to the small intestine intact and may be appropriate for some patients.

This is a complex operation that lasts several hours and requires general anesthesia. This is often performed as open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery, or a combination of surgical techniques.

Due to the complexity of the procedure, it is essential to employ an experienced surgeon such as those at MIIS to minimize risks and improve the outcomes of the surgery.

Recovery From a Whipple Procedure

It is common for patients to recover in the ICU for several days following the Whipple procedure. A total hospital stay may last up to 2 weeks. After being released from the hospital, a patient will require continued care and monitoring. Following the Whipple procedure, help at home should be arranged for several weeks.