Theodore N. Pappas
Duke Surgical Innovation Distinguished Professorship

RESEARCH: We have a long interest in understanding the importance of the volume-quality relationship for surgeons. In addition, we have done extensive work studying the impact of surgical trainees on the outcomes for patients. Our division is trying to fully understand the importance of robotic surgery to the future of cancer surgery.

CLINICAL: Our team has an extensive experience in aggressive surgical approaches to pancreatic cancer, including Whipple resection, subtotal pancreatectomy, laparoscopic and open pancreatic tail resection, laparoscopic/robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy, ablative techniques for the pancreas, and peripancreatic vascular resection. When clinically indicated, we employ less extensive pancreatic and duodenal operations, such as ampullary resection, duodenal resection, sphinceroplasty, and benign tumor enucleation.

We take care of every variety of complicated abdominal wall and diaphragmatic hernias, including flank hernias, paraesophageal hernias, recurrent abdominal wall hernias, abdominal mesh infections, and hernias associated with colostomies. 

Other areas of interest include stomach surgery (for ulcer disease or cancer), treatment of complications of pancreatitis, routine and complicated gall bladder disease, and inguinal hernia repair. 

Current Appointments & Affiliations

Contact Information

  • 1131 Hosp South, Yellow Zone, Durham, NC 27710
  • Box 3479 Med Ctr, Durham, NC 27710

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