Advanced Surgical Treatment for Pancreatic Tumours
The Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) is a highly specialized surgery performed to treat pancreatic cancer, particularly tumours located in the head of the pancreas. It is considered the most effective surgical option for eligible patients and can significantly improve survival when performed by an experienced specialist.
This complex operation requires advanced surgical expertise, careful planning, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer develops in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ that plays an essential role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It often presents with subtle symptoms in early stages, which makes timely evaluation extremely important.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent upper abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine and pale stools
- New-onset diabetes
- Nausea or vomiting
Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes.
What is the Whipple Procedure?
The Whipple Procedure is a complex cancer surgery in which the surgeon removes:
- The head of the pancreas
- A portion of the small intestine (duodenum)
- The gallbladder
- Part of the bile duct
- Sometimes a portion of the stomach
- Nearby lymph nodes
After removal, the digestive tract is carefully reconstructed to allow normal digestion.
The procedure may be performed using:
Treatment is usually recommended for individuals who:
- Open surgery
- Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery
- Robotic-assisted surgery
The surgical approach depends on tumour location, stage, and the patient’s overall health.
Who May Need a Whipple Procedure?
This surgery is commonly recommended for:
- Pancreatic cancer limited to the head of the pancreas
- Tumours of the bile duct or duodenum
- Certain neuroendocrine tumours
- Selected benign but high-risk pancreatic conditions
Each patient is thoroughly evaluated with scans and tests before recommending surgery.
Benefits of the Whipple Procedure
- Offers the best chance of long-term survival in early pancreatic cancer
- Complete removal of the tumour when detected at a treatable stage
- Relief from jaundice and digestive symptoms
- Improved quality of life with proper post-operative care
- Enables further treatments like chemotherapy when required
