To whipple or not to whipple? What is quality of life like after?

Posted by calvink69 @calvink69, Dec 9, 2025

Am 56 years old in generally good health, though with type 2 diabetes. Have a very large (41mm) adenoma in my duodenum. It's not malignant but is of a type that will almost certainly become malignant, it will eventually block my duodenum. I also have abnormal cells in the bulb of my duodenum, so endoscopic removal is not an option. Surgeon is suggesting a full Whipple, without preserving the pylorus. Realize that I'm blessed that things are pre-malignant but also didn't have a Whipple on my bingo card at this point in my life. Whole process has moved very quickly - started with anemia in mid-October and am looking at a potential surgery date in January. Would appreciate anyone's perspective on living with a Whipple and on quality-of-life post recovery.

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Profile picture for ellyou069 @ellyou069

@tomrennie
The belly band works as a support like a back support/compression stocking but for the stomach/abdomen. It definitely helps a lot.
Through it all I am grateful for the Whipple procedure. Keeping a positive attitude and just knowing my worst days are someone’s best days helps me to keep things in perspective.

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@ellyou069 I understand now. I wear compression socks for neuropathy. Thanks for the analogy. I am a believer in keeping a positive attitude and also realizing my worst days are someone's best days. I used to be that someone. Thanks for the reminder. I sometimes lose sight of that.

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Profile picture for bilas @bilas

@tomrennie Yes the condition is very rare. I am taking Jamie to the movies today. He and I need a break. HUGS

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@bilas Yay for the two of you. I think that the distraction will help. Are you going to see anything fun? A good belly laugh or two might be just what the doctor ordered.

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