Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy for solid-pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas.

Abstract

Solid-pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) of pancreas is a rare entity with a low malignant potential. We aimed to identify the safety and the feasibility of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy for SPT. From May 2008 to August 2011, we performed 4 cases of laparoscopic, spleen-preserving, distal pancreatectomies for patients with SPT. We retrospectively collected the demographic characteristics, operative and postoperative details, and follow-up outcomes of the patients. Three female patients and 1 male patient with SPT underwent laparoscopic, spleen-preserving, distal pancreatectomy. The average operating time was 200 minutes. The average blood loss was 90 mL. The postoperative course of these patients was uneventful. All patients were followed-up and no local recurrence or metastasis was found. Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy for patients with SPT is safe and feasible, with preferable operative outcomes, long-term tumor-free survival, and high spleen-preserving rate.