LLUMC–Murrieta now offers robotic-assisted Whipple surgery

The first-ever robotic-assisted Whipple procedure was performed at Loma Linda University Medical Center - Murrieta in late May. Whipple procedures treat pancreatic, bile duct, or duodenal tumors through the removal of part of the stomach, duodenum, pancreas, bile duct, and gallbladder before rejoining the remaining parts of the pancreas, bile duct, stomach, and bowels.

Performing this complicated surgery with robot-assisted technology minimizes the invasive nature of the procedure, potentially helping the patient become more functional (walking, improved pain control) earlier after surgery than with the classic open approach.

"We are committed to offering a full spectrum of health care services to Southeast Riverside's residents here at Loma Linda University Medical Center - Murrieta," said Jonathan Jean-Marie, MHA, FACHE, senior vice president and administrator of LLUMC - Murrieta. "Our ability to perform robotic-assisted Whipple surgery allows our patients to receive this life-saving procedure much closer to their homes and vital family support."

While this is the first robotic Whipple procedure performed at LLUMC-Murrieta, robotic-aided Whipples have been performed at Loma Linda University Medical Center's main campus since 2022.

According to surgeon Raja Narayan, MD, MPH, FSSO, a specialist in Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgical Oncology, the patient is doing well and was released from the hospital just five days after surgery.

Pancreatic cancer risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, and inherited mutations, according to Dr. Narayan. However, early symptoms of developing pancreatic cancer are rare.

Dr. Narayan has prepared a video explaining the Whipple procedure. More information about LLUMC-Murrieta's cancer care services can be found on the medical center's website.