What are the steps in a Whipple procedure?
Although there are only a few basics steps to the procedure – removal of the pancreatic head, distal bile duct, duodenum and either distal gastrectomy or plyloric preservation. Next is the reconstruction with bringing up the stapled end of jejunum to the pancrease, then the hepatic duct, and lastly to the stomach.
What incision is used for Whipple procedure?
The Whipple procedure is done using 1 large incision (surgical cut) in your abdomen. Sometimes, before making the large incision, your surgeon will make several small incisions and put a small video camera into your abdomen.
How do you care for someone after Whipple surgery?
Take the pain medications whenever you need it and as instructed by your doctor. Do not do any heavy lifting or straining for at least 6 weeks after surgery. Do not lift anything over 10 pounds or 5 kg. Do not drive if you are taking pain medication because these medications can cause you be sleepy or drowsy.
How long is the incision for Whipple surgery?
The third incision site of approximately 3 1/2 inches will allow your surgeon’s hand to guide the operation and remove the involved portion of the pancreas. On occasion, upon inspection, your surgeon may decide that the more traditional, open Whipple procedure is necessary to perform and will convert the procedure.
What are the complications of Whipple procedure?
Possible complications from the Whipple procedure
- Leaking from connections where the surgeon has joined organs (bile leak or gastric leak)
- Infection at the incision site or inside the abdomen.
- Bleeding.
- Problems with stomach emptying after eating.
- Difficulty digesting certain foods.
- Weight loss.
- Bowel habit changes.
Where is the incision for pancreatic surgery?
Most often, this operation is done through a large incision (cut) down the middle of the belly. Some doctors at major cancer centers also do the operation laparoscopically, which is sometimes known as keyhole surgery (see What’s New in Pancreatic Cancer Research?).
What should you monitor after Whipple surgery?
This surgical technique was later termed the Whipple procedure….Table.
| Complications | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Exocrine insufficiency | 80% |
| Diarrhea | 30% |
| Diabetes mellitus type IIIc | 60% |
| Pain | 30% |
What happens after a Whipple procedure?
Most people will be walking immediately after the operation. Expect to spend at least a week in the hospital, depending on your overall recovery. Stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) for a few days. If you have certain medical conditions or a complex case, you may be admitted to the ICU after surgery.
What vessels are ligated in a Whipple procedure?
The pancreas has been transected at the level of the portal vein and the pancreatic head is reflected laterally, allowing identification of small venous tributaries from the portal vein and superior mesenteric vein (SMV). These tributaries are ligated and divided.
What is recovery like after Whipple surgery?
Recovery from the Whipple Procedure This is a complex operation that will require hospitalization for one to two weeks with the first post-surgery night spent in the intensive care unit before being transferred to the surgical floor. Patients usually remain fatigued for about two months after this operation.