What is a frequent complication of Whipple surgery?
What is a frequent complication of Whipple surgery?
The most common complication is post-op leaking of pancreatic juices from the site of the incision. A drain may need to be inserted through the skin to allow for the juices to drain, perhaps for several weeks. A rare but severe complication after surgery is bleeding from the gastroduodenal artery).
What is the life expectancy after the 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%.
What is dumping after Whipple surgery?
Delayed gastric emptying is more common after a modified Whipple procedure than a Whipple procedure. Dumping syndrome is when food moves too fast from the stomach into the small intestine. It may also be called rapid gastric emptying.
Can you get pancreatitis after Whipple surgery?
In severe cases, an abdominal CT would be needed to make the diagnosis of postoperative pancreatitis. Post-Whipple’s pancreatitis can have significant prognostic implications, including a higher risk of pancreatic fistula and a higher risk of delayed gastric emptying.
How long can you live after pancreatic surgery?
Up to 10 percent of patients who receive an early diagnosis become disease-free after treatment. For patients who are diagnosed before the tumor grows much or spreads, the average pancreatic cancer survival time is 3 to 3.5 years.
What foods should you avoid after Whipple surgery?
Avoid fried, greasy and fatty foods. These foods are hard to digest with an altered pancreas. Choose baked, broiled, or grilled foods instead. After a Whipple procedure, it is often recommended to limit fat intake to no more than 40-60 grams per day.
Can you drink alcohol after having Whipple surgery?
If you drink alcohol regularly, you may be at risk for other complications during and after your surgery. These include bleeding, infections, heart problems, and a longer hospital stay.