Hi!
Happy to hear you have found your way to Mayo.
I had an open Whipple and my surgery was about 7-8 hours. Dr Truty did not offer me the choice of a laparoscopy. I actually had a very good recuperation in the hospital, up walking the next morning. There were a few bumps in the road during my hospital stay but the team, staff and doctors are incredible. I was in the hospital for 5 days. I stayed a week across the street from St Mary’s while my family helped with all of my needs. What regimen of chemo are you on?
It was difficult when I arrived home because I really had no appetite. I would eat what I could in very small quantities at first. I was fortunate I never had the issues with dumping syndrome or vomiting. I handled food well. Now almost one year out from surgery I am able to eat most everything without consequence. My only residual symptom is severe chemo induced neuropathy. I suggest you do everything in your power to avoid this horrible condition. Unfortunately mine does not seem to want to leave me! I am here if you have any questions along your journey. God Bless