Saudi Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SJMPS)
Volume-11 | Issue-11 | 1094-1097
Original Research Article
Morbidity and Mortality of Cephalic Duodenopancreatectomy (Experience of the Department of Visceral Surgery at The Avicenne Military Hospital of Marrakech)
Faisal El Mouhafid, Bader Jouabri, Haytem Ajrem, Mohamed Lahkim, Hicham Baba, Jawad Fassi Fihri, Ahmed Lkhadir, Rachid El Barni
Published : Nov. 18, 2025
Abstract
Cephalic duodenopancreatectomy (CDP), also known as the Whipple procedure, is a major surgery performed on the pancreatobiliary junction. It is mainly indicated for cancers of this region, as well as for certain benign tumors or chronic pancreatitis. Despite technical advances, this procedure remains associated with high morbidity, with postoperative complications such as pancreatic or digestive fistulas, gastroparesis, hemorrhage, infections, and, in the long term, pancreatic insufficiency. A retrospective study conducted in the Department of Visceral Surgery at the Avicenne Military Hospital of Marrakech between 2017 and 2021 analyzed 35 cases of CDP. The average age of patients was 62 years, with a male predominance. The main indications were: Vaterian ampulloma (45.7%), Adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head (34.3%), Adenocarcinomas of the distal bile ducts (11.4%), And a few rare cases of duodenal or cystic tumors. Most tumors were well-differentiated (74%). The Child reconstruction technique was used in 65.7% of cases, while pancreaticogastric anastomosis was performed in 34.3%. The postoperative mortality rate was 11.4%, mainly due to hemorrhagic shock. Early complications occurred in 42.8% of patients, predominantly gastroparesis (17.1%) and hemorrhage (8.6%). The results are consistent with those reported in the literature. The study emphasizes the importance of thorough preoperative assessment, close postoperative monitoring, and an experienced surgical team to reduce complications and improve prognosis.