Whipple Procedure for Pancreatic Cancer
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Pancreatic Cancer Treatment: Whipple Procedure
If the tumor is contained entirely within the pancreas and appears as though it can be removed, a Whipple procedure may be the most appropriate treatment option for you. Whipple surgery (also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy) is a common type of surgery for pancreatic cancer.
Although it is a common pancreatic cancer surgery, the Whipple procedure is a complicated procedure that requires a great deal of skill to perform. Fortunately, the surgical oncologists at CTCA have extensive experience in performing Whipple procedures.
The goal of a Whipple procedure is to remove cancer in the head of the pancreas or bile ducts. In the procedure, your surgical oncologist will remove the cancerous tissue; resect a portion of the pancreas, bile duct, small intestine, and stomach; and perform immediate reconstruction.
Sometimes, your oncologists will use Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) in combination with a Whipple procedure. With IORT, you receive a single, powerful dose of radiation directly to the tumor site during the procedure. This helps to minimize side effects, spare healthy tissues and reduce treatment times.
Next Topic: Pancreatic Cancer Palliative Procedures
