Cancer is still a leading cause of death that creates an alarming situation for people of all ages. There are different types of cancers that may affect different body organs. Pancreatic cancer is caused in your pancreas, and it is one of the deadliest of all cancers.
Fortunately, there are treatments that can bring positive changes to the condition. In this article, we are going to discuss one such effective treatment for pancreatic cancer, i.e., the Whipple procedure.
What is A Whipple Procedure?
Taking the name from an American doctor, Allen Whipple, it is a surgery performed on a pancreatic cancer patient. It can cure cancer in some people, while in others, it can significantly increase survival chances.
Whipple procedure is a treatment option for 15-20% of patients being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. In this surgery, the surgeon will remove the following:
- Gallbladder
- Section from the upper portion of the small intestine (duodenum)
- Stomach portion (pylorus)
- Lymph nodes adjacent to the pancreas
- Head part of the pancreas
There are different variations of the pancreas that may bring a difference in the surgical process. The process takes 5-8 hours as it involves the removal of different parts/portions of various organs. Whipple surgery in India has also become widely known for its success rate and affordable cost.
What Is The Effectiveness Of A Whipple Procedure?
In this surgery, the surgeon can remove the cancerous part of the pancreas that will eventually increase the patient’s survival rates. Whipple procedure preserves the digestive function and production of insulin as well.
Even though it is a preferred treatment for pancreatic cancer, the relatively low success rate makes surgeons apprehensive regarding it. During the 70s, surgeons were reluctant to perform this surgery to its high death rates.
However, things have changed after the involvement of medical technology. Surgeons are able to improve the success rate with the help of cutting-edge technology. India is a preferred destination for Whipple Procedure due to its low cost and better success rate.
What is The Cost of Whipple Procedure in India?
Whipple surgery in India may cost you up to 5 Lacs. It starts from 2.5 Lacs and may go up to 5 Lacs depending upon different factors. However, compared to other countries, India has a highly affordable Whipple procedure cost. As a result, it becomes a preferred destination for medical tourism.
What Are The Risks Involved in Whipple Procedure?
Just like any other surgical process, the Whipple procedure has a bunch of risk factors, including:
- Bleeding
- Infections
- Trouble in excretion after meals
- Weight loss
- Diabetes
The Bottom Line
Whipple procedure is an effective surgery for pancreatic cancer. However, it is important to have in-depth knowledge regarding the surgery before opting for it. You must consult your doctor thoroughly and understand how to prepare for the surgery and what to expect after it. Only then will you be able to make the most of it. Whipple procedure is a compelling medical procedure for pancreatic disease. Nonetheless, it is critical to have inside and out information in regards to the medical procedure prior to selecting it.