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.