The Whipple procedure, also called pancreaticoduodenectomy, is a surgery to remove the head of the pancreas. The operation also involves removing the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum, the gallbladder, and the bile duct. It is most commonly performed to treat pancreatic cancer but can also address other conditions.
Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to permanent damage to the pancreas. This condition can cause abdominal pain, digestive problems, and weight loss, among other symptoms. When conservative treatments such as medication and lifestyle changes don’t provide sufficient relief, surgical management may be considered. Here are some common surgical options for chronic pancreatitis:
Our Comprehensive liver care surgeons team in Bangalore provides personalized treatment plans, the choice of surgical procedure depends on various factors including the extent of pancreatic damage, the location of the affected areas, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences. It’s important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of each surgical option with their healthcare team to make an informed decision. Additionally, post-surgical management often involves close monitoring, pain management, and adjustments to diet and lifestyle to optimize outcomes and quality of life.
Pancreatic tumors are not only difficult to diagnose at the early stages but are also dangerous as they are also difficult to treat, primarily because pancreatic cancer tumours don’t respond as well to therapies that are commonly used for other, less severe types of cancer.
However, there are treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Depending on the specific type of pancreatic cancer and when it’s diagnosed, treatment generally involves some combination of these three therapies.
However, most patients with pancreatic cancer experience the following symptoms before the diagnosis:
• Weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Fatigue
• Weakness
The other symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:
• Abdominal discomfort
• Back pain
• Yellowing of the eyes and skin
• Amber-coloured urine
• Vomiting
• Feeling of fullness
• Fatty- or oily-looking stool