What are the long term effects of Whipple surgery?

But a Whipple procedure is a very complex operation that often causes major changes to the digestive system. This can translate into some serious long-term effects, including abdominal discomfort, weight loss, digestive problems, and chronic fatigue.

What can you expect after Whipple surgery?

Things to expect post-surgery are: You will not have anything to eat for the first few days so your reconstructed digestive system can heal. You will awaken with a nasal tube in your stomach to be used to remove any contents, such as saliva. You will be asked to begin walking the first day after your surgery.

Does Whipple surgery cure cancer?

The Whipple procedure is the only known cure for pancreatic cancer and is usually performed on patients with cancer that has not spread beyond the pancreas.

Is there an alternative to Whipple procedure?

Based on this experience, I believe that the duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection and the Frey procedure both offer better alternatives than the Whipple operation for patients with benign disease.

Can you live a long life after Whipple surgery?

For some pancreatic patients, however, a complex surgery known as the Whipple procedure may extend life and could be a potential cure. Those who undergo a successful Whipple procedure may have a five-year survival rate of up to 25%.

How long is the hospital stay after Whipple surgery?

Most people stay in the hospital for 6 days after having a Whipple procedure. When you’re taken to your hospital room, you’ll meet one of the nurses who will care for you while you’re in the hospital.

What is the life expectancy of someone with Whipple procedure?

Life Expectancy After Whipple Procedure. Patients suffering from pancreatic cancer have a 5 percent survival rate at five years, meaning that only 5 percent of the patients will live five years after their diagnosis. Those patients that undergo the Whipple procedure, however, increase their survival rate to 20 percent at five years.

How many people survive after the Whipple procedure?

Overall, the five-year survival rate after a Whipple procedure is about 20 to 25%.

What effects can a patient expect after a Whipple procedure?

Leakage of Pancreatic Fluids. The most common Whipple procedure complication patients experience is the leaking of pancreatic fluids from the incision where the surgeon has reconnected the pancreas and small

What to expect after Whipple surgery?

What To Expect After Surgery. The Whipple procedure requires general anesthesia and a hospital stay of 1 to 2 weeks. Unless you had laparoscopic surgery, you will have a large scar in your belly. It’s normal to feel pain in the area for the first week or so. You’ll get medicines to control the pain.