The successful treatment and management of patients undergoing Whipple’s surgery require the coordinated efforts of various medical professionals and departments. Each specialist brings unique expertise to ensure comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery.

1. Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgeons: These specialised surgeons are the primary professionals performing Whipple’s surgery. They possess advanced training and experience in complex abdominal surgeries, particularly those involving the liver, pancreas, bile ducts, and gallbladder. Their expertise is crucial in executing the intricate surgical steps involved in the Whipple procedure, including the resection of multiple organs and the delicate reconstruction of the digestive tract.

2. General Surgeons: In some medical centres, general surgeons with extensive experience in gastrointestinal surgeries may also perform Whipple’s surgery. They often work in collaboration with hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeons to provide comprehensive surgical care.

3. Gastroenterologists: Gastroenterologists play a vital role in the initial diagnosis and management of patients who may require Whipple’s surgery. They conduct endoscopic procedures such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to diagnose pancreatic, bile duct, and duodenal tumours. Their diagnostic skills help in accurately identifying candidates for surgery and determining the extent of the disease.

4. Oncologists: These specialists manage the overall treatment of cancer patients, including those requiring Whipple’s surgery for pancreatic or bile duct cancer. They coordinate chemotherapy and other systemic treatments, often before or after surgery, to shrink tumours and eliminate remaining cancer cells.

This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients undergoing Whipple’s surgery receive the highest quality of care, from accurate diagnosis and meticulous surgical intervention to thorough postoperative support and ongoing cancer management.