Whipple Procedure (Pancreatoduodenectomy)
Pancreatic cancer is a very dangerous form of cancer with the lowest survival rate of all types of oncology. The location of the tumour in the pancreas, the stage of cancer progression at the time of its discovery, the age and health of the patient, as well as other medical factors affect the choice of the most effective treatment option.
The doctor may suspect the presence of pathology during a routine examination. Unfortunately, often people turn to a specialist late when the tumour has already reached a significant size and there have been disruptions in the work of several organs. Therefore, it is worth consciously treating one’s health.
Causes of the disease
Specialists identify the following factors that affect the appearance of the disease:
- Bad habits;
- Genetic predisposition;
- Exposure to chemicals;
- Diabetes;
- Chronic inflammation.
Symptoms
If you notice the following signs of pathology, you should immediately consult a specialist:
- Pain or discomfort;
- Weight loss;
- The yellowness of the skin;
- Weakness;
- Sweating;
- Fast weight gain;
- Palpable abdominal mass;
- General malaise.
Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and subsequent Whipple surgery gives a very optimistic prognosis. Even in the later stages of oncology, surgery is a life-prolonging treatment.
Diagnostics
To make a correct diagnosis, the doctor uses the following research methods:
- Examination;
- Blood test;
- Biopsy;
- PET-CT;
- Ultrasound;
- Laparoscopy;
- ERCP and others.
The most effective way to get rid of a tumour is to remove it. Our surgeons use minimally invasive methods of surgery.
Surgery
The Whipple procedure at the Tel Aviv Medical Clinic (pancreatoduodenectomy) is used as a surgical option when a malignant tumour is located in the head of the pancreas. The operation involves removing the head of the pancreas, most of the duodenum, part of the bile ducts, gall bladder, part of the small intestine and lymph nodes located near the pancreas. Sometimes part of the stomach can also be removed. Further surgical reconstruction of the remaining parts of the pancreas, stomach and intestines ensures the restoration of digestive function.
After Whipple’s surgery, the patient can expect to stay in the hospital for 10 to 14 days to recover and prevent postoperative risks and complications, which sometimes include infections and bleeding.