Our Summary

This research paper looks at a common side effect of Whipple surgery, which is a type of procedure used to treat pancreatic cancer. This side effect, called delayed gastric emptying (DGE), slows down the digestion of food and can prolong hospital stays.

The study observes two types of DGE: primary and secondary. Secondary DGE is caused by complications like abscesses, while the cause of primary DGE is still not fully understood. The researchers gathered data from 262 patients who underwent the Whipple procedure between 2014 and 2018, and found that DGE developed in just over a fifth of cases.

The treatment approach differed depending on the type of DGE. For secondary DGE, they focused on treating the underlying issues like abscesses. For primary DGE, they used an endoscopy, a procedure where a long thin tube with a camera is used to look inside the body, to help treat the condition.

The researchers found that patients with primary DGE were able to eat solid food and leave the hospital more quickly after endoscopic treatment. Therefore, they suggest that endoscopy could be an effective treatment for primary DGE that doesn’t respond to other medical treatments.

FAQs

  1. What is a common side effect of Whipple surgery?
  2. How is delayed gastric emptying (DGE) treated in patients who underwent the Whipple procedure?
  3. What conclusions did the researchers come to about the effectiveness of endoscopy in treating primary DGE?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about Whipple procedure is to follow a strict post-operative diet plan to aid in recovery and prevent complications such as delayed gastric emptying. This may include gradually reintroducing solid foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding foods that may cause digestive issues. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your healthcare team to optimize your recovery and overall outcomes.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for the Whipple procedure include those with early-stage pancreatic cancer, tumors located in the head of the pancreas, tumors that have not spread to other organs, and patients who are healthy enough to undergo major surgery. Additionally, patients with other conditions such as chronic pancreatitis, bile duct cancer, and benign tumors of the pancreas may also be recommended for the Whipple procedure. It is important for patients to discuss their individual circumstances with their healthcare provider to determine if the Whipple procedure is the most appropriate treatment option for them.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after a Whipple procedure would typically involve:

  • Pre-surgery consultations and tests to determine if the patient is a candidate for the procedure
  • The Whipple procedure itself, which involves removing a portion of the pancreas, small intestine, and bile duct
  • Recovery in the hospital, which can vary in length depending on the individual’s healing process
  • Potential complications such as delayed gastric emptying, which may require additional treatment
  • Follow-up appointments and monitoring to ensure the patient’s health and recovery progress

After the Whipple procedure, patients may experience changes in their digestion and eating habits, as well as potential side effects such as weight loss and fatigue. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations for post-operative care and attend regular check-ups to monitor their progress and address any concerns that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about Whipple procedure and potential delayed gastric emptying (DGE) include:

  1. What is the risk of developing delayed gastric emptying after a Whipple procedure?
  2. What are the symptoms of delayed gastric emptying and how is it diagnosed?
  3. What is the difference between primary and secondary delayed gastric emptying?
  4. What treatment options are available for delayed gastric emptying?
  5. How will delayed gastric emptying impact my recovery and long-term health?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes or dietary modifications I should make to help manage delayed gastric emptying?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments to monitor for delayed gastric emptying?
  8. Are there any warning signs or complications I should watch out for related to delayed gastric emptying?
  9. How can endoscopy help treat primary delayed gastric emptying and what are the potential risks or side effects?
  10. What is the success rate of endoscopic treatment for primary delayed gastric emptying, and how soon can I expect to see improvements in my symptoms?

Reference

Authors: Ozgun YM, Oter V, Piskin E, Colakoglu MK, Aydin O, Aksoy E, Dalgic T, Bostanci EB. Journal: Am Surg. 2022 Feb;88(2):273-279. doi: 10.1177/0003134821989037. Epub 2021 Jan 31. PMID: 33517709