Cancer treatment
Whipple Procedure
The Whipple procedure is a major operation that removes the head of the pancreas and nearby organs, mainly to treat pancreatic and related cancers.
Quick answer
Whipple Procedure: what it is, why it's done and what happens
The Whipple procedure removes the head of the pancreas, part of the small bowel (duodenum), the gallbladder and part of the bile duct, then reconnects the remaining organs to restore digestion.
- Why it is done: It is used mainly for cancer of the head of the pancreas, and for some cancers of the bile duct, duodenum or ampulla, when the tumour can be removed and the person is fit enough for major surgery.
- What happens: Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the affected organs and reconstructs the connections between the stomach, bile duct and remaining pancreas and bowel.
What it is
The Whipple procedure removes the head of the pancreas, part of the small bowel (duodenum), the gallbladder and part of the bile duct, then reconnects the remaining organs to restore digestion.
Why it is done
It is used mainly for cancer of the head of the pancreas, and for some cancers of the bile duct, duodenum or ampulla, when the tumour can be removed and the person is fit enough for major surgery.
What happens
Under general anaesthetic, the surgeon removes the affected organs and reconstructs the connections between the stomach, bile duct and remaining pancreas and bowel. It is complex surgery taking several hours.
Recovery
A hospital stay of one to two weeks is common, with a gradual return to eating. Full recovery takes months, and digestive enzyme supplements and dietary adjustments are often needed.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
It is major surgery with significant risks including leaks from the reconnections, bleeding, infection, delayed stomach emptying and diabetes. It is done in specialist centres by experienced teams.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Whipple Procedure: frequently asked questions
Why is the Whipple such a big operation?
It removes and then reconnects several organs around the pancreas, making it one of the most complex abdominal operations. It is carried out in specialist centres to give the best outcomes.
Will my digestion be affected afterwards?
Often yes. Many people need pancreatic enzyme supplements to digest food and may develop diabetes, so dietary support and monitoring are an important part of recovery.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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