Whipple Surgery Recovery Tips

Written by Eileen O'Connell

The Whipple surgery is the ‘holy grail’ for surgeons but for the patient – the challenge is big one.

Below are some tips on how to get back on your feet. These are suggestions that may work for you but you will have to know and determine what is best for you.

MOVE – you need to walk and be mobile with your body every day. The intestinal system needs activity to move so you need to walk. I found walking at the local mall to be a good thing (with a friend) since there were benches to stop and rest and bathrooms available. It was also nice to be out in the world. Remember, sunshine and fresh air is good for you.

REST – do plan to rest when you are tired but don’t get attached to the sofa (see MOVE). Naps are great. Do plan that the first couple of weeks after the Whipple you will feel like you got hit by a truck. You also may have issues re-adjusting your sleep cycle from the hospital.

EAT – this will be the hardest part but you do need to start eating again. Small, snack like meals are probably the best. Since part or all of your pancreas is gone – enzymes pills are very important. There is no perfect formula so you may need to adjust the number of pills with each meal. Lower fat items are probably better for the revised digestive system.

Your sense of taste may also be altered for awhile as well. Eat what tastes good. Again, the sense of taste will come back after awhile. I still sometimes have to remember to eat as my stomach does not growl like it used to.

Patience – while you’re the patient you need to have patience with yourself and your body. The body has been rudely disturbed and it will take awhile to feel ‘normal’ again. Stop and smell the roses. Recognize that each day is a gift. Be okay to have a ‘good day’ – today. Don’t worry too much about tomorrow or the day after.

Your anatomy – you will probably know more than you wanted to about parts of your anatomy that you generally would NEVER discuss with family let alone with total strangers. Yes, that restraint was removed along with the cancer.

So, buy some ‘DEPENDS’ as your bowels may not alert you as when you need to go or give you the sufficient time warnings. The good news is that most patients get over this stage but until then – DEPENDS are a good thing to have! You will get tired of the bathroom so make sure yours is attractive. I spent the first 6 months always making sure where ever I went I knew where the nearest facilities were.

Perspective – at first, every little new thing will make you nervous. It’s okay to be nervous but do then check with the doctor or medical staff. Don’t obsess alone. Time will provide perspective even though time becomes our overwhelming focus.

ACCEPT – that you are going to spend a lot of your energy on what seems like a never ending list of medical issues that few people warned you about (possible diabetes, blood clots, mal-absorption, vitamin deficiencies, hernias, etc). Most patients may not have these problems but some will. Each one of us is different even though we are the same module.

While you are accepting – don’t forget to accept help, if and when you need it. Family and friends are giving you a gift. Be gracious, say thank you and don’t worry about the paybacks.

For the Ladies – (sorry guys, you missed this one), if you are still having your periods – they most likely will not be regular for sometime. I know, TMI but if you are still of that age – be aware.

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