Whipple Operation
How is the Whipple Operation Performed?
In the Whipple operation, the head of the pancreas, a portion of the bile
duct, the gallbladder and the duodenum is removed. Occasionally, a portion
of the stomach may also be removed. After removal of these structures,
the remaining pancreas, bile duct and the stomach is then connected to
the intestine to restore gastrointestinal function.
For certain patients, a minimally invasive laparoscopic Whipple operation
may be performed. This innovative approach utilizes a laparoscopic hand-access
device. Currently, this procedure may be offered to select patients with
small pancreatic andenocarcinoma, chronic pancreatitis, cystic tumors
and islet cell tumors of the pancreas, as well as patients who have ampullary cancer.
What are the Results of the Whipple Operation?
Recent studies have shown that of a Whipple operation is dependent upon
the experience of the hospital and the surgeon performing the surgical
procedure. In those medical centers, such as Hoag Digestive Health Institute,
which perform a high volume of these procedures, the mortality rate from
the Whipple operation is less than four percent. However, in medical centers
that infrequently perform the Whipple operation, a much higher complication
rate and mortality rate (often greater than 15-20%) have been reported.
The Hoag surgical team performs over 1000 Whipples per year program-wide,
the highest volume in Orange County. Being a high-volume surgical center
enables the Hoag surgical team to achieve a technical skill level not
all facilities can match.
It has been shown that surgery for pancreatic cancer offers a much better
survival rate than chemotherapy alone.
What are the Potential Complications and Long-Term Consequences of the
Whipple Operation?
The Whipple operation is a complex operation with a high chance of developing
complications. Just as the survival rate is better when seeking treatment
at a high volume, highly-experienced center, complication rates for pancreatic
cancer surgery are much lower when seeking care at a high volume center.
In addition to surgical risks, it’s important to be aware that there
are some long-term consequences that some patients experience as a result
of the Whipple operation, including:
-
Increased Risk of Diabetes: During the Whipple operation part of the pancreas is removed. Pancreatic
tissue produces insulin that is required for blood sugar control. When
pancreatic tissue is removed the body releases less insulin, and therefore,
the risk of developing diabetes may increase. However, for most patients
with normal blood sugar prior to surgery, and no history of diabetes or
chronic pancreatitis, there is a low probability of developing diabetes
as a result of the Whipple operation.
-
Mal-absorption: The pancreas produces enzymes required for digestion of food. In some
patients, removal of part of the pancreas during the Whipple operation
can lead to a diminished production of these enzymes that may change absorption
of important nutrients and also affect bowel movements. Long-term treatment
with oral pancreatic enzyme supplementation usually provides relief with
this issue.
-
Loss of weight: It is common for patients to lose up to 5-10% of their body weight compared
to their weight prior to illness. Weight loss usually stabilizes very
rapidly after surgery, and most patients are able to maintain their weight
and do well.
Who is a Candidate for the Whipple Operation?
In general, a Whipple operation may be recommend for treatment of:
It’s important to note that the Whipple Operation is not appropriate
for every patient. At Hoag, our
multidisciplinary team of experts includes pancreatic surgeons, medical oncologists, hepatologists and radiologists
who work together to thoroughly review and determine the best treatment
option suited to each individual patient.
Why Choose the Hoag Digestive Health Institute?
Studies have shown that proper diagnosis, staging and successful surgical
outcomes are highly dependent upon the experience of the treatment team
in accurately diagnosing and treating pancreatic disease. Outcome research
studies have also suggested that best outcomes from the Whipple operation
are directly related to the experience of the surgeon in performing this
highly complex operation, which is why choosing the right surgeon is vital.
While some surgeons perform Whipple procedures on a small number of patients,
Hoag performs more Whipple Operations than any other medical center in
Orange County. Being a high-volume surgical center enables the Hoag surgical
team to achieve a technical skill level not all facilities can match.
With its exceptional team of physician experts and staff, progressive technology,
and state-of-the-art surgical facilities, it’s easy to see why Hoag
continues to lead the way in comprehensive hepatobiliary and pancreatic
disease treatment.
Determining if the Whipple Operation is Right for You?
The hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease experts at Hoag Digestive Health
Institute continue to lead the way in progressive patient-centered gastrointestinal
treatment.
To determine if you are a candidate for the Whipple Operation, speak with
your physician, or contact us to schedule an appointment at 888-574-8029.