Whipple’s Surgery
A complex operation that removes the head of the pancreas and nearby structures to treat pancreatic, ampullary and bile duct cancers.
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Free, no-obligation quote, usually within 24 hours
About this Procedure
The Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) is a complex operation to treat cancer and other tumours near the head of the pancreas. The surgeon removes the head of the pancreas, the gallbladder, part of the bile duct and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum), and sometimes part of the stomach. The remaining pancreas, bile duct and stomach are then reconnected to the small intestine so digestion can continue.
It is most often used for pancreatic cancer in the head of the pancreas, and is also a common treatment for ampullary cancer and some bile duct and duodenal cancers. It is not suitable for everyone: the cancer must be confined to the area that can be removed, and you need to be fit enough for major surgery. Some patients receive chemotherapy before or after the operation.
The Whipple procedure is done under general anaesthetic and usually takes five to eight hours. It may be performed as open surgery or, at selected centres and in suitable cases, with laparoscopic or robotic techniques. Afterwards you typically spend one to two weeks in hospital. Most people return to regular activities after about six weeks, though it may take several months to feel fully recovered, and some need enzyme supplements to help digestion.
The Whipple procedure is offered at Medwell's partner hospitals in Delhi NCR, including Paras Health, Gurugram, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi and Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram. The treating surgeon confirms whether the operation is right for you after reviewing your CT scans, tumour markers and biopsy.
Why travel for this procedure?
- Complex pancreatic surgery at established centres
The Whipple procedure is performed by gastrointestinal and oncology surgeons at the partner hospitals. - Accredited partner hospitals
Treatment at established Delhi NCR hospitals such as Paras Health, Gurugram, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram and BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi. - Experienced specialists
Surgeons work with gastroenterologists, oncologists and intensive care teams to plan and support recovery. - Shorter waiting times
Once your reports are reviewed, treatment can usually be scheduled promptly, which matters when a cancer diagnosis is new. - English-speaking teams and Medwell coordination
English-speaking teams, a package estimate of USD 9,000 – 11,900, and Medwell coordination of your stay.
Share your scans and reports for a free quote
Send your CT or MRI scans, tumour marker results and any biopsy or endoscopy reports. A pancreatic surgeon reviews them and Medwell sends a personalised quote, usually within 24 hours.
Travel and pre-surgery evaluation
Medwell arranges your visa letter, flights and hotel. In Delhi NCR you complete fitness tests and staging, and the surgeon confirms the plan.
Whipple surgery, recovery and follow-up
You recover in hospital for about one to two weeks, then rest nearby before flying. Medwell supports follow-up with the surgeon and oncologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Whipple's surgery?
Whipple's surgery (pancreaticoduodenectomy) is an operation that removes the head of the pancreas, the gallbladder, part of the bile duct and part of the small intestine, then reconnects the digestive system. It treats cancers near the head of the pancreas and is offered at Medwell's partner hospitals in Delhi NCR.
Who needs a Whipple procedure?
A Whipple procedure is usually recommended for pancreatic cancer in the head of the pancreas, ampullary cancer and some bile duct cancers when the tumour has not spread beyond the area that can be removed. You also need to be fit for major surgery. The treating surgeon confirms suitability after reviewing your scans and reports.
How much does Whipple's surgery cost in India?
Whipple's surgery in India is estimated at USD 9,000 – 11,900 as a package at Medwell's partner hospitals in Delhi NCR. The final amount depends on the hospital chosen, whether an open, laparoscopic or robotic approach is used and the length of your stay. Medwell sends a free, no-obligation personalised quote, usually within 24 hours of receiving your reports, so you know what to expect before you travel.
How long is the hospital stay and recovery after a Whipple procedure?
Hospital stay after a Whipple procedure is typically one to two weeks, according to Cleveland Clinic. Most people return to regular activities after about six weeks, but it can take several months to feel fully recovered. International patients should plan to stay in Delhi NCR until the surgeon clears them to travel.
Is the Whipple procedure safe?
The Whipple procedure is a major, complex operation, and complications are possible, including leaks where organs are reconnected, delayed stomach emptying and digestive changes. According to Cleveland Clinic, most complications are temporary and treatable, but some can be lasting. Your surgeon will explain your individual risks before you decide.
Which hospitals in Delhi NCR offer Whipple's surgery?
Whipple's surgery is offered at 5 of Medwell's accredited partner hospitals in Delhi NCR: Paras Health, Gurugram, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram and Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital, Vasant Kunj. Medwell helps you compare hospitals and pancreatic surgeons.
How do I plan Whipple's surgery in India with Medwell?
To plan a Whipple procedure in India with Medwell, share your medical reports and scans for a free, no-obligation personalised quote, usually within 24 hours. Medwell helps you choose the partner hospital and specialist, books your consultation, provides a visa invitation letter and helps arrange flights, a hotel near the hospital and airport pickup. Medwell helps you plan a stay of several weeks and stays in touch through follow-up.