Pancreaticoduodenectomy, commonly known as the Whipple procedure, is a highly complex surgery that involves removing the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, parts of the stomach, and the bile duct. This surgery is most commonly performed to treat pancreatic cancer, particularly when the cancer is confined to the head of the pancreas.

The procedure requires meticulous planning and expertise due to the complexity of the organs involved. Following the removal of the affected parts, the surgeon reconstructs the digestive system by reconnecting the remaining pancreas, bile duct, and stomach to the small intestine.

Postoperative care is intensive, requiring management of pain, complications such as infection, and careful monitoring of digestive function. Patients often require nutritional support and enzyme replacements as their body adjusts to the changes in digestion.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy provides a potentially life-saving treatment for pancreatic cancer. Despite its complexity, the procedure offers significant improvements in survival rates for patients with localized disease.