UNDERSTANDING
WHIPPLE'S SURGERY
What is Whipple's Surgery?
Whipple’s surgery, also called pancreaticoduodenectomy, is a major operation where the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine (duodenum), bile duct, and gallbladder are removed. Sometimes, a small portion of the stomach may also be taken out. The surgeon then reconnects the remaining organs so that digestion can continue normally.
When is it needed?
- Pancreatic Cancer- Especially tumors located in the head of the pancreas.
- Bile duct cancers- Growths blocking the flow of bile near the pancreas.
- Ampullary Cancer- Tumors at the junction where the bile duct and pancreatic duct meet.
- Chronic Pancreatitis- Severe cases where pain and blockages do not respond to other treatments.
- Benign tumors or cysts- Large or suspicious growths around the pancreas that risk turning cancerous.
- Traums or injury- Rare but required when the pancreas and duodenum are severely damaged.
Process of WHIPPLES SURGERY
We perform imaging, endoscopy, and blood tests to check the spread of disease and overall health.
The affected pancreas, bile duct, gallbladder, and duodenum are carefully removed while protecting major blood vessels.
The digestive tract is reconstructed so food, bile, and pancreatic juices flow normally.
Patients are monitored in the ICU initially, then shifted to wards with special diets, physiotherapy, and ongoing care.
WHAT ARE
BENEFITS OF WHIPPLE'S SURGERY
Disease removal at the source
The surgery takes out tumors or diseased tissue directly, offering a curative approach for many patients.
Improves Long- term survival
For pancreatic and bile duct cancers, Whipple’s is the only potentially life-saving treatment that increases long-term survival.
Reduce risk of complications
By removing the diseased part, the risks of blockages, infections, or bleeding from the affected organs are significantly lowered.
Restored Digestion
After reconstructing the digestive tract, patients can return to a more normal eating pattern and improved nutrition.
Curative Intent
Unlike temporary treatments, this surgery aims to completely remove the disease rather than just control symptoms.
Pain Relief
In cases of chronic pancreatitis or blockages, the surgery helps reduce constant abdominal pain and discomfort.
Why Trust Us for Whipple's Surgery
Combined expertise of two leading liver surgeons
Dr. Vikas Patel has been part of more than 600 liver transplants, while Dr. Dharmendra Dangi has been part of over 500 liver transplants and performed 500+ complex liver and HPB surgeries. Together, they bring unmatched skill to even the toughest cases.
Experience with high-risk and pediatric cases
From critically ill adults to children needing delicate surgery, our team has successfully managed some of the most challenging and rare liver conditions. Both doctors are trained to manage challenging cases, including liver failure in children, elderly patients, and blood group mismatches.
Proven results using advanced techniques
We use the latest surgical and medical methods including minimally invasive procedures to ensure safer operations, faster recovery, and long-term success. Dr. Dangi is one of the few surgeons in India performing midline donor hepatectomy, a safer way to remove part of the liver from a living donor.
Nationally recognized for excellence
Our surgeons are trusted across India for their leadership in liver surgery. Their work has been featured in medical journals, presented at national conferences, and acknowledged in health magazines such as Silicon India (Top 10 Liver Transplant Surgeons, 2025).
FAQ
Common Questions We Hear From Patients
Your concerns are valid. Here are expert answers to help you make confident decisions about your liver health.
The operation usually lasts 6 to 8 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether reconstruction is extensive.
Yes. While digestion may take time to adjust, most patients return to a normal lifestyle after recovery, with certain dietary changes.
Yes, as long as their overall health is good and the heart, lungs, and kidneys are functioning well. Age alone is not a barrier.
Patients experience some pain after surgery, but it is well controlled with modern anesthesia and pain relief methods.
No, unlike the liver, the pancreas does not regenerate. However, the remaining pancreas is usually enough to maintain necessary functions.
Some patients may need pancreatic enzyme tablets to help with digestion, especially if a large portion of the pancreas was removed.
Initial recovery takes 6 to 8 weeks, but full recovery with weight gain and stamina may take several months.
Take the First step to a
A New Chance at Recovery
Whipple’s surgery is one of the most challenging operations, but for many patients it is the only chance for cure. With precise planning, careful execution, and comprehensive recovery support, we ensure patients receive the best care possible.
Talk to Ahmedabad’s Trusted Liver Experts
Dr. Vikas Patel and Dr. Dharmendra Dangi are highly skilled in liver and pancreatic surgeries, with vast experience in handling complex Whipple’s procedures. Together, they provide safe, ethical, and successful treatment for every patient.