The success rate of the Whipple procedure varies depending on the individual patient's condition and the experience of the surgeon. In general, the overall survival rate after a Whipple procedure for pancreatic cancer is about 20% at five years. However, the survival rate can be higher for patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer who undergo the procedure.
The success rate of the Whipple procedure is also influenced by the surgeon's experience. Studies have shown that surgeons who perform a high volume of Whipple procedures have better outcomes than surgeons who perform a low volume of procedures.
Some of the complications that can occur after a Whipple procedure include:
* Pancreatic fistula: A leak of pancreatic fluid from the surgical site.
* Bleeding
* Infection
* Pneumonia
* Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
* Pulmonary embolism (PE)
* Diabetes
* Malnutrition
The Whipple procedure is a major surgery, but it is the only potentially curative treatment for pancreatic cancer. With careful patient selection and experienced surgical care, the success rate of the Whipple procedure can be improved.