Whipple’s Procedure for a Single Gunshot Wound: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Traumatic pancreatoduodenectomy, also known as a traumatic Whipple procedure, is a complex surgical procedure reserved for severe traumatic injuries to the pancreas, duodenum, or periampullary structures. This case report details the management of a 19-year-old male who sustained a single gunshot wound to the abdomen, resulting in high-grade pancreatic and duodenal injuries. The procedure involved resection of the pancreatic head, the first and second parts of the duodenum (D1 and D2), a partial gastrectomy and a cholecystectomy. Liver haemorrhage was also controlled. Despite postoperative complications, including a pancreatic fluid leak and acute respiratory distress syndrome, the patient recovered and was discharged home. This case highlights the rarity of this procedure in trauma, its associated mortality and morbidity rates and the importance of timely and effective multidisciplinary care.

Keywords

• abdominal trauma
• duodenal injury
• pancreatic injury
• traumatic pancreatoduodenectomy
• traumatic whipple procedure