Whipple procedure

Hello,

I am a 75 yr. old male, in good health, But because of an elevated enzime

was refered to and had an endoscopic exam and was diagnosised with a

tumor in (polypoid , non cancerous )

A whipple procedure was recomended, I have reservation but want to have a quality life.

The diagnosis was polyp in the major papilla, filling defectin lower third of main bile duct.

The med school of SC said this is pre cancerous , but has a potential to

become Malignment.

Any insight will be appreciated.

Richard

Richard,

I think you are being well advised to have the Whipple. It's a blessing it was found in a precancerous stage. The Whipple is a tough surgery but if you are other wise healthy and have a surgeon experienced with Whipple you may successfully prolong your life. My husband, age 65, had the Whipple in Dec. 2009. Unfortunately, cancer was found. The Whipple has left him with issues with gas. His total recovery from the surgery has been slowed by the chemo. My husband views the Whipple as a " piece of cake " compared to the chemo.

Lots to think about.

Be Well,

Karen

Karen, thanks for your response . It is encourgeing.

How ever, I contacted the Mayo clinic in Fla. and  a DR, Auten

returned my call . Faxed him all the test results from MUSC in

Charleston SC. After reviewing he seemed to think the Whipple

might be an overkill. He said he might be able to do robotic surgery

 (laproscopic) to correct my problem. I am weighing the options,

Now I plan to call for all information  and probably ask for an appoinment.

Praying for good conclusion.

Thanks again, Richard

Richard,

Your response reminded me of something I read along the way. They can remove some of these growths with some sort of endoscopic procedure. I think this is a somewhat of a newer technique for less involved situations. Obviously, less invasive is better.

Be Well,

Karen