What does the Whipple operation primarily address?

The Whipple operation, also known as pancreaticoduodenectomy, is primarily performed to treat pancreatic cancer, particularly when the cancer has spread to adjacent organs such as the duodenum, bile duct, and sometimes the stomach. This complex surgical procedure involves the resection of the head of the pancreas along with the duodenum, gallbladder, and a portion of the bile duct. It may also include segments of the stomach in certain cases.

The focus on pancreatic cancer is crucial because this type of cancer often necessitates a multi-organ surgical approach to ensure that it is treated adequately while maximizing the chances of a successful outcome. The Whipple procedure is a pivotal intervention for patients diagnosed with this condition, allowing for both the removal of the tumor and the reconstruction of the digestive system. Thus, its role in addressing malignant processes in multiple organs when pancreatic cancer is involved justifies the correctness of the answer concerning the main indication for the operation.

In contrast, the other options reference different surgical procedures that are distinct in purpose and technique and do not relate to the complexities of the Whipple operation.