The Whipple procedure is the most common operation performed to treat benign masses or cancers in the head of the pancreas, ampulla of Vater, duodenum, common bile duct and sometimes to treat chronic pancreatitis. It offers the best chance for long term control of disease. Watch Dr. Emily Winslow explain the procedure with these illustrations. | MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

The Whipple procedure, also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy, is a surgical treatment for pancreatic cancer and is explained by Johns Hopkins surgical oncologist Christopher Wolfgang. Questions answered include: 1. Describe what you do. (0:10) 2. What is the Whipple procedure a solution for? (0:22) 3. What is the other name for a Whipple procedure? (0:55) 4. How many hours does it take to complete the operation? (1:15) 5. Is the surgery open or laparoscopic? (1:47) 6. What organs are removed?