Following the removal surgeon reconnects the remaining pancreas, bile duct and stomach with the small intestine(jejunum) . This is one of the most complex operations . At times , the portal vein is also resected and joined back when affected. Post surgery patient may be kept in icufor monitoring .. Recovery period is usually between 6-10days after surgery. Whipple’s procedure is at times associated with complications. Complications include a pancreatic joint leak or bleeding, infection, fluid collection inside the abdomen, which might increase the hospital stay and expenses. Complication rates have come down with better understanding of the disease and improved technical skills. Complication are fewer when its done by a experienced surgeon and in a high volume centre.
Distal or subtotal pancreatectomy
This is a resection of the body or tail of the pancreas for a tumor in any of these regions. It may need an associated splenectomy. Your doctor may recommend a vaccination prior to or afterthe surgery. This is a shorter surgery as compared to theWhipples . we often do this by robotic or laparoscopy when feasible.