Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

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What surgical procedure is performed on the head of the pancreas?

Billroth II
Whipple
Vagotomy
Cholecystectomy

The correct answer is: Whipple

The Whipple procedure, also known as pancreatoduodenectomy, is a complex surgical operation performed on the head of the pancreas. This procedure often involves the removal of the head of the pancreas along with the duodenum, the gallbladder, and a portion of the bile duct. It is primarily conducted to treat pancreatic cancer located in or around the head of the pancreas, as well as certain conditions like chronic pancreatitis or benign tumors. The significance of this procedure lies in its comprehensive approach to addressing cancers that could impact surrounding anatomical structures, thereby requiring the removal of multiple components to achieve surgical margins free of cancer. The Whipple procedure can dramatically alter the digestive process, necessitating careful postoperative management for the affected patient. Other surgical procedures mentioned in the options are unrelated to the head of the pancreas. Billroth II pertains to gastrectomy procedures involving the stomach. Vagotomy involves cutting the vagus nerve to reduce acid secretion in the stomach, and cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Each of these has distinct indications and does not target the head of the pancreas, highlighting the uniqueness of the Whipple procedure in this context.