In a landmark medical achievement, doctors at KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital, Belagavi, have completed a successful total laparoscopic Frey’s Surgery on a patient suffering from Chronic Calcific Pancreatitis. This intricate procedure, involving pancreatic head coring with lateral pancreaticojejunostomy, is renowned as one of the most complex surgeries for pancreatic conditions, typically lasting 6 to 7 hours.
Led by Dr. Sudarshan Chaugale, an esteemed Advanced Laparoscopic surgeon, the surgery marks a significant advancement in minimally invasive surgical techniques. The patient, a 45-year-old woman, had been experiencing persistent abdominal pain unresponsive to conventional medications for the past two years. Initially admitted under the care of Dr. Santosh Hajare in the Medical Gastroenterology department, she was later referred to Dr. Chaugale for surgical intervention due to her condition’s severity.

Performed entirely through laparoscopic (keyhole) incisions, each measuring only 0.5cm to 1cm, the surgery showcased the precision and skill of the surgical team. Dr. Manjunsth Patil, the Anaesthesiologist, ensured a smooth anesthesia process, with the patient successfully extubated immediately post-surgery. The collaborative efforts of Dr. Chenappa, Dr. Ayush Bansal, and the nursing staff, led by Sister Nutan, facilitated a seamless recovery for the patient.
Post-surgery, the patient experienced remarkable progress, with the ability to walk without support and resume a normal diet within a day. After five days of observation, she was discharged, reporting no pain at the surgical site and exhibiting a significant improvement in her overall condition.
Chronic Pancreatitis, characterized by inflammatory changes in the pancreas leading to stone formation and strictures, poses significant challenges in treatment. Traditional open surgeries for such conditions often result in prolonged recovery times, increased pain, and potential complications such as wound infections and incisional hernias. However, laparoscopic techniques offer a promising alternative, with reduced post-operative complications and faster recovery rates.
Dr. Sudarshan Chaugale’s expertise in advanced laparoscopic surgeries extends to a wide range of pancreatic and gastrointestinal conditions, including both cancerous and non-cancerous ailments.