A pancreaticoduodenectomy is commonly known as which type of procedure?

A pancreaticoduodenectomy is commonly referred to as the Whipple procedure. This surgical operation involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, a portion of the bile duct, and typically the gallbladder and sometimes part of the stomach. It is primarily performed to treat pancreatic cancer located in the head of the pancreas but can also be indicated for chronic pancreatitis or other conditions affecting the area.

The term "Whipple" honors Dr. Allen Whipple, who developed this surgical technique in the 1930s. The complexity of the procedure requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the pancreatic and duodenal regions, making it a significant procedure in the field of surgical oncology and gastroenterology. Thus, the most accurate identifier for a pancreaticoduodenectomy is indeed the Whipple procedure, aligning directly with the upper gastrointestinal surgical practices.