Pancreatic Reconstruction Research Articles

Central pancreatectomy of the remnant pancreas without reconstruction after pancreatoduodenectomy

BackgroundThere are several reports on the safety and feasibility of pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) without reconstruction of the small remnant pancreas. However, a few studies have explored central pancreatectomy (CP) for non-reconstructed small remnant pancreases after PD. This study presents a case of CP without pancreatic reconstruction after PD.Case presentationA 58-year-old man with cerebral palsy underwent PD for distal cholangiocarcinoma. Three years postoperatively, a 12-mm tumor was detected in the remnant pancreatic body and diagnosed as a pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasm. Surgical resection was performed, because the tumor was enlarged and chemotherapy resistant. The afferent loop with pancreatojejunostomy anastomosis was dissected, and CP, including pancreatojejunostomy anastomosis, was performed. Given the remnant pancreas was hard and atrophic, the pancreatic tail was transected using a stapler without reconstructing the small remnant pancreas. The patient experienced no postoperative complications including postoperative pancreatic fistula, and the endocrine function of the pancreas was preserved.ConclusionsWe present a case of remnant pancreatic CP that did not require reconstruction after PD. Preservation of the small remnant pancreas without reconstruction during CP may be feasible to maintain endocrine function in select patients after PD.

Task division by multiple console surgeons is beneficial for safe robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy implementation and education.

The optimal approach for the safe implementation and education of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) remains unclear. Prolonged operation time may cause surgeon fatigue and result in perioperative complications. To solve this issue, our department adopted task division by the console surgeon turnover between resection and reconstruction in 2022. This study retrospectively investigated consecutive patients who underwent RPD from November 2009 (initial introduction of RPD) to December 2023. The analysis excluded patients who underwent concomitant resection of other organs. The cases performed by a single console surgeon (single approach) were compared with those performed by two or more console surgeons (multiple approach). This study analyzed 85 consecutive RPD cases, including 51 with the single approach and 34 with the multiple approach. The operation time was significantly shorter (832 vs. 618min, p < 0.001), and the postoperative major complication was less frequent (45% vs. 12%, p = 0.003) in the multiple approach group, although less experienced surgeons performed the multiple approach (number of RPD experiences: 19 cases vs. 5 cases, p < 0.001). The console surgeon turnover between the resection and reconstruction resulted in a safe pancreatojejunostomy performed by the less experienced surgeon (number of pancreatic reconstruction experiences: 6.5 vs. 14 cases, p = 0.010). Surgeons who started RPD with a multiple approach observed a reduction in surgical time and a lower incidence of complications earlier than those who started with a single approach. Task division during the early introduction phase of RPD using the multiple approach demonstrated potential contributions to improved surgical outcomes and enhanced educational benefits.

A modified single-needle continuous suture of duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy in pancreaticoduodenectomy.

The pancreatic reconstruction technique decides the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPF) in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This study aims to evaluate the safety of modified single-needle continuous suture (SNCS) of duct-to-mucosa and compare the efficacy with double-layer continuous suture (DLCS) of duct-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) in open PD (OPD). A total of 266 patients that received PD between January 2019 and May 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 130 patients underwent DLCS, and 136 patients underwent SNCS [73 OPD and 63 laparoscopic PD (LPD)]. The primary outcome was clinically relevant POPF (CR-POPF) according to the definition of the revised 2016 International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF). Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to reduce confounding bias. A total of 66 pairs were successfully matched using PSM in OPD. No significant difference was observed in the occurrence of CR-POPF between the two groups (9.1% vs. 21.2%, P=0.052). However, the median duration of operation and PJ was shorter in the SNCS group. The incidence of CR-POPF in LPD was 9.5%. Furthermore, regarding the alternative fistula risk score (a-FRS), the CR-POPF rate were 2.1%, 10.5%, and 15.6% in low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups (P=0.067). The SNCS is a facile, safe, and effective PJ technique and does not increase the incidence of POPF, regardless of a-FRS stratification, pancreatic texture, and main pancreatic duct (MPD) size.

Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy and laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy with robotic reconstruction: single-surgeon experience and technical notes

Despite the increasing number of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomies, laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) and LPD with robotic reconstruction (LPD-RR) are still valuable surgical options for minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD). This study introduces the surgical techniques, tips, and outcomes of our experience with LPD and LPD-RR.Between March 2014 and July 2021, 122 and 48 patients underwent LPD and LPD-RR respectively, at CHA Bundang Medical Center in Korea. The operative settings, procedures, and trocar placements were identical in both approaches; however, different trocars were used. We introduced our techniques of retraction methods for Kocherization and uncinate process dissection, pancreatic reconstruction, pancreatic division, and protection using the round ligament. The perioperative surgical outcomes of LPD and LPD-RR were compared.Baseline demographics of patients in the LPD and LPD-RR groups were comparable, but the LPD group had older age (65.5 ± 11.6 years vs. 60.0 ± 14.1 years, p = 0.009) and lesser preoperative chemotherapy (15.6% vs. 35.4%, p = 0.008). The proportion of malignant disease was similar (LPD group, 86.1% vs. LPD-RR group, 83.3%; p = 0.759). Perioperative outcomes were also comparable, including operative time, estimated blood loss, clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (LPD group, 9.0% vs. LPD-RR group, 10.4%; p = 0.684), and major postoperative complication rates (LPD group, 14.8% vs. LPD-RR group, 6.2%; p = 0.082).Both LPD and LPR-RR can be safely performed by experienced surgeons with acceptable surgical outcomes. Further investigations are required to evaluate the objective benefits of robotic surgical systems in MIPD and establish widely acceptable standardized MIPD techniques.

Usefulness of the new articulating laparoscopic instrument in laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy has been developed in two tracts of robotic and laparoscopic surgeries. Laparoscopic approach remains a frequently performed surgical method that accounts for a significant portion of minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy. However, biliary and pancreatic reconstruction stages are still demanding procedures because of the inherent limitations of conventional laparoscopic instruments. Therefore, recently developed articulating laparoscopic instruments have greater dexterity similar to robotic instruments seem to be able to compensate for the weak points of conventional laparoscopic instruments. In this article, we demonstrate the hepaticojejunostomy and duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy technique using the new articulating laparoscopic instrument.

HPB P29 Pancreatoduodenectomy for suspected malignancy: postoperative nonmalignant histology confers increased risk of serious morbidity

Abstract Background Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) remains the treatment of choice for resectable cancers affecting the pancreatic head. It is the only curative-intent treatment option for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in Europe. Perioperative mortality following PD has fallen in recent years due to improvements to patient selection, operative technique and the centralisation of services. This is now less than 4.0% in high-volume centres. However, postoperative morbidity remains around 60% and relaparotomy is not uncommon. Not infrequently, a tissue diagnosis is not obtained preoperatively and radiologically distinguishing between benign, premalignant and malignant lesions can be challenging. Hence, a proportion of patients who are thought to have malignant disease preoperatively are ultimately found to have benign/premalignant histology postoperatively. It is unknown if this affects perioperative outcomes. This study aimed to compare the surgical outcomes of these patients with case-matched controls who had malignancy histologically confirmed postoperatively. Statistical analysis was designed to test the primary hypothesis that perioperative outcomes do not differ significantly between the two groups. Methods A retrospective, paired case matched-control study was undertaken using a prospectively maintained database (01/01/2006–31/12/2020). Patients with suspected malignancy on preoperative imaging and a final histological diagnosis of a benign or premalignant disease were included. Forty-five cases were matched to confirmed malignant controls using the following criteria: age, gender, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, preoperative serum bilirubin, application of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT), preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or percutaneous transhepatic biliary (PTC)-drainage, type of PD (standard Whipple's procedure or pylorus-preserving approach), absence of vascular resection or additional procedure, and type of pancreatic reconstruction (pancreatico-jejunostomy or pancreatico-gastrostomy). Matching was blinded to the measured outcomes, which included 30- and 90-day mortality and morbidity, quantified using the Clavien-Dindo system. Continuous variables both in preoperative matching and postoperative outcomes were analysed for distribution using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Fisher's exact test was used for categorical variables selected as part of the matching criteria. Significance was set at p&amp;lt;0.01. Continuous variables with non-normal distribution were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Categorical variables from postoperative outcomes were analysed using either Fisher's exact test or the Chi-squared test. Results A total of 609 PDs were performed. Overall morbidity and 90-day mortality rates were 49.9% and 3.1%, respectively. Forty-five patients (7.4%) were found to have undergone PD for suspected malignancy but ultimately found to have benign/premalignant histology. These cases were compared to 45 controls where malignancy was confirmed postoperatively. Matched characteristics demonstrated no significant difference between the benign/premalignant and malignant groups. Histology did not significantly affect 30-day mortality (5 vs 2, p=0.238), median length of stay (both 11 days, p=0.711), number of patients admitted to intensive care (both 29, p=1.00), or the number of days spent in intensive care (both one day, p=0.984). Furthermore, unplanned return to theatre (benign: 6, malignant: 4, p=0.502) and 90-day readmission rates (benign: 6, malignant: 5, p=0.138) were similar. Final histological diagnosis did not affect overall morbidity (both 28, p=1.00) but major morbidity (Clavien-Dindo grade III-V) was significantly higher in the benign/premalignant group (18 vs 8, p=0.035). Independently, clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) was also more common in the benign/premalignant group (10 vs 2, p=0.013). This was despite the fact that pancreatic consistency and main pancreatic duct size did not significantly differ between the two groups. Conclusions A not insignificant proportion of patients who undergo PD for suspected malignancy are ultimately found to have benign/premalignant histology. In our study, these patients had a significantly higher incidence of overall major morbidity when compared to those who had a malignant histological diagnosis confirmed. Patients with benign/premalignant disease were also found to have a higher incidence of pancreatic fistula, despite having similar pancreas texture and main pancreatic duct diameters compared with the malignant group. Future research should focus on developing methods that can accurately distinguish between malignant and non-malignant lesions preoperatively.

Preoperative risk assessment for postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF): Image-based calculation of duct-to-parenchyma (D/P) ratio and an Alignment of Duct and Mucosa (ADAM) anastomosis may lead to a low POPF rate-results from 386 patients.

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is the most critical complication after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Preoperative identification of high-risk patients and optimal pancreatic reconstruction technique can be a way to reduce postoperative complications. A series of 386 patients underwent PD over a 10-year period (2009-2019). On routinely performed preoperative computed tomography (CT) images, the ventro-dorsal diameters of duct (D) and parenchyma (P) were measured in the cutting plane at the superior mesenteric vein. Then, the ratio of both values was calculated (D/P ratio) Double-layer pancreatojejunostomy with alignment of duct and mucosa (ADAM) by two monofilament threads (MFT) was performed in 359 patients and pancreatogastrostomy (PG) in 27 patients. The incidence of POPF was diagnosed according to the International Study Group for Pancreatic Fistula criteria. The overall rate of POPF was 21% (n = 80), and the rate of clinically relevant type B/C fistulas 6.5% (n = 25). A D/P ratio of <0.2 was significantly associated with type B/C fistula (11%, p < 0.01). In low-risk patients (D/P ratio >0.2), type B/C fistula occurred only in 2%, and in high-risk patients (D/P ratio <0.2) in 9%. ADAM anastomosis was performed safely by two different surgeons. A PG anastomosis had double-digit POPF rates in all groups. Preoperative CT imaging with D/P measurement may predict the risk of POPF development. A cut off D/P ratio of <0.2 was significantly associated with clinical relevant POPF. ADAM anastomosis may be an option for pancreatojejunostomy. However, preoperative knowledge of the D/P ratio could guide decision-making for primary pancreatectomy when pancreatic reconstruction is critical.

Dynamics Changes of Solids Gastric Emptying Post -Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND: Gastric emptying (GE) is one of the common post-operative complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Multiple factors have been involved in this complication. Dynamic studies such as GE scintigraphy (GES) have informed us about changes in the behavior of the stomach before and after the operation. AIM: The objective of this study is a short-term scintigraphic evaluation of GE in post-PD patients for solid food before (baseline) and after the operation for 30 days. METHODS: Between April 2016 and September 2019, 30 patients who underwent PD were investigated for the effect on GE of solids. GE scan GES was performed for the evaluation of solids in GE on pre-operative and post-operative day 30. The operative time, blood loss, the specimens’ pathology and resection margins, the interpretation of the GES study, and finally the hospital course data were all gathered and subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: Nineteen patients developed delayed GE (DGE) while four developed rapid GE or dumping. The type of pancreatic reconstruction affected the GE dynamics. DGE was evident in all cases with pancreaticogastrostomy (PG), while it was observed only in 4 patients of 15 with pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ). Seven cases developed a post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF), 3 after PG versus 4 after PJ, and were all successfully managed conservatively. CONCLUSION: The reconstruction method of the remnant pancreas could affect the dynamics of GE. The DGE to solids was witnessed more in cases reconstructed by PG and less in cases with PJ. Post-operative complications associated, such as POPF, are factors associated with DGE.

OUTCOMES OF WHIPPLE PROCEDURE FOR PANCREATIC CANCER: INITIAL EXPERIENCE FROM A PUBLIC-SECTOR HOSPITAL OF PAKISTAN

Objectives: The objective of this study was to review the outcomes of PD at our institution. Material and methods: From 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2019, patients who underwent PD for pancreatic cancer at Dr. Ruth K.M. Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi complying with the criteria were chosen for this retrospective cross-sectional study utilizing convenient sampling. Ages, gender, site of the disease, histopathology, operative findings, pancreatic reconstruction techniques, postoperative complications including SSI, intra-abdominal collections, chyle leaks, anastomotic leaks, and their management and 30-day mortality were recorded and analyzed. Results: The mean age of patients was 57±13.62 years. The male-to-female ratio was 2.1:1. Jaundice was the most common symptom patients encountered. Surgical site infection (SSI) was the leading postoperative complication. Metastasis to distant sites or locoregional recurrence evolved in 32.7% of patients. The 30-day mortality after surgery was 17.07%. 27 patients (65.9%) of the patients are alive and disease free and 14 patients (34.1%) expired due to recurrence. Conclusion: Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a complex procedure. However, with recent advancements, it has evolved into a safer procedure with significantly better surgical outcomes. Large-scale studies for identifying factors priming in poor outcomes along with stage-based and age-based comparisons are recommended. Keywords: Whipple procedure, Pancreatogastrostomy, Pancreatojejunostomy, outcome, Survival

Is age just a number or does it really affect the surgical and oncological outcomes after pancreatoduodenectomy?

To review the impact of age on perioperative and postoperative outcomes in patients following pancreaticoduodenectomy. The retrospective study was conducted at the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan, and comprised data from January 2014 to December 2018 of all patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy. Postoperative morbidity and oncological outcomes were compared between patients aged ≤60 years in group A and those aged >60 years in group B. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. Of the 161 patients, 103(64%) were males and 58(36%) were females. There were 117(73%) patients in group A; 72(61.5%) males and 45(38.5%) females with an overall mean age of 46±11 years. The remaining 44(27%) were in group B; 31(70.5%) males and 13(29.5%) females with an overall mean age of 67±05 years. The most common pathology was adenocarcinoma 130(81%), commonest site was periampullary 85(53%) and the most common pancreatic reconstruction technique employed was pancreaticogastrostomy 110(68%). Patients in group B had significantly higher comorbidities compared to those in group A (p<0.05). Estimated blood loss during surgery was significantly higher in group B (p=0.004). There was no significant difference in overall morbidity (p=0.856), reoperation (p=1.000), 30-day readmission rate (p=0.097), 90-day mortality rate (p=0.324)) and overall survival (p=0.551) between the groups. Pancreatoduodenectomy could be performed in the elderly with comparable morbidity and oncological outcomes as younger patients. Comorbid conditions remained higher in elderly patients and preoperative optimisation may help improve postoperative outcomes.

Postoperative morbidity and mortality after pancreatoduodenectomy with pancreatic duct occlusion compared to pancreatic anastomosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Pancreatoduodenectomy is burdened by elevated postoperative morbidity. Pancreatic duct ligation or occlusion have been experimented as an alternative to reduce the insurgence of postoperative pancreatic fistula. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare postoperative mortality and morbidity (pancreatic fistula, postoperative hemorrhage, delayed gastric emptying, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency and diabetes mellitus) between patients undergoing pancreatic anastomosis or pancreatic duct ligation/occlusion after pancreatoduodenectomy. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 studies was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane protocol (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021249232). No difference in postoperative mortality was highlighted. Pancreatic anastomosis was found to be protective considering all-grades pancreatic fistula (RR: 2.38, p=0.0005), but pancreatic duct occlusion presented a 3-folded reduced risk to develop "grade C" pancreatic fistula (RR: 0.36, p=0.1186), although not significant. Diabetes mellitus was more often diagnosed after duct occlusion (RR: 1.61, p<0.0001); no difference was found in terms of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (RR: 1.19, p=0.151). Postoperative mortality is not influenced by the pancreatic reconstruction technique. Pancreatic anastomosis is associated with a reduction in all-grades pancreatic fistula. More high-quality studies are needed to clarify if duct sealing could reduce the prevalence of "grade C" fistula.

Modified binding pancreaticogastrostomy vs modified Blumgart pancreaticojejunostomy after laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic or periampullary tumors.

BACKGROUNDLaparoscopic pancreaticoenteric anastomosis is one of the technically challenging steps of minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), especially during the learning curve. Despite multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, the type of pancreatico-enteric anastomosis as a risk factor for post-pancreatectomy complications is debatable. Also, the ideal technique of pancreatic reconstruction during the learning curve of laparoscopic PD has not been well studied.AIMTo compare the short-term outcomes of modified binding pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) and Blumgart pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) during learning curve of laparoscopic PD.METHODSThe first 25 patients with resectable pancreatic or periampullary tumors who underwent laparoscopic PD with modified binding PG or modified Blumgart PJ between January 2015 and May 2020 were retrospectively analyzed to compare perioperative outcomes during the same learning curve. A single layer of the full-thickness purse-string suture was placed around the posterior gastrotomy in the modified binding PG. In the modified Blumgart technique, only a single transpancreatic horizontal mattress suture was placed on either side of the pancreatic duct (total two sutures) to secure the pancreatic parenchyma to the jejunum. Also, on the ventral surface, the knot is tied on the jejunal wall without going through the pancreatic parenchyma. Post pancreatectomy complications are graded as per the International Study Group for Pancreatic Surgery criteria.RESULTSDuring the study period, modified binding PG was performed in 27 patients and modified Blumgart PJ in 29 patients. The demographic and clinical parameters of the first 25 patients included in both groups were comparable. Lower end cholangiocarcinoma and ampullary adenocarcinoma were the primary indications for laparoscopic PD in both groups (32/50, 64%). The median operative time for pancreatic reconstruction was significantly lower in the binding PG group (42 vs 58 min, P = 0.01). The clinically relevant (Grade B/C) postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) was significantly more in the modified PJ group (28% vs 4%, P = 0.04). In contrast, intraluminal postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH) was more in the binding PG group (32% vs 4%, P = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the incidence of delayed gastric emptying between the two groups.CONCLUSIONDuring the learning curve of laparoscopic PD, modified binding PG reduces POPF but is associated with increased intraluminal PPH compared to PJ using the modified Blumgart technique.

Challenge and future of liver and pancreatic robotic surgery. Analysis of 64 cases in a specialized unit

IntroductionRobotic surgery has proven effective in certain surgical procedures. However, in liver and pancreatic surgery (HBP) its use is still rare. The initial experience in HBP robotic surgery of a specialized unit of a tertiary hospital is presented. MethodThe results of patients undergoing robotic HBP surgery between April 2018 and October 2020 have been prospectively studied. The data analyzed correspond to demographic data, surgical techniques performed, associated morbidity and mortality. Results64 patients were operated, corresponding to 35 hepatectomies (major [6.7%], anatomic [52.9%], limited [34.4%], cystectomies [3%] and marsupialization [3%]), 29 pancreatectomies (distal [48.2%], central [6.9%], cephalic [13.8%], enucleations [24.1%], ampullectomies [3.5%] and duodenal resections [3.5%]).In liver surgery the mean operative time was 204.4 min (100−265 min), the median postoperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo scale was one (1–4), the mean blood losses 166.7 mL (100−300 mL), there was no conversion and the mean postoperative stay was four days (2–14 days).In pancreatic surgery, the mean operative time was 243.8 min (125−460 min), the median of postoperative complications was two (1–4), blood loss of 202.3 mL (100−500 mL) associated to a conversion rate 17.8% and an average stay of seven days (3–23 days). ConclusionsRobotic HBP surgery is safe and feasible. It is suggested that its use facilitates parenchymal sparing surgery, access to posterior liver segments and anastomosis in pancreatic reconstruction compared to laparoscopic surgery.

The PrEDICT-DGE score as a simple preoperative screening tool identifies patients at increased risk for delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Morbidity after Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has remained unchanged over the past decade. Delayed Gastric Emptying (DGE) is a major contributor with significant impact on healthcare-costs, quality of life and, for malignancies, even survival. We sought to develop a scoring system to aid in easy preoperative identification of patients at risk for DGE. The ACS-NSQIP dataset from 2014 to 2018 was queried for patients undergoing PD with Whipple or pylorus preserving reconstruction. 15,154 patients were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors for DGE, which were incorporated into a prediction model. Subgroup analysis of patients without SSI or fistula (primary DGE) was performed. We identified 9 factors independently associated with DGE to compile the PrEDICT-DGE score: Procedures (Concurrent adhesiolysis, feeding jejunostomy, vascular reconstruction with vein graft), Elderly (Age>70), Ductal stent (Lack of biliary stent), Invagination (Pancreatic reconstruction technique), COPD, Tobacco use, Disease, systemic (ASA>2), Gender (Male) and Erythrocytes (preoperative RBC-transfusion). PrEDICT-DGE scoring strongly correlated with actual DGE rates (R2=0.95) and predicted patients at low, intermediate, and high risk. Subgroup analysis of patients with primary DGE, retained all predictive factors, except for age>70 (p=0.07) and ASA(p=0.30). PrEDICT-DGE scoring accurately identifies patients at high risk for DGE and can help guide perioperative management.

P-P54 Interpreting trends in post-operative drain fluid amylase according to type of anastomosis used to form a pancreaticojejunostomy

Abstract Background The formation of the pancreaticojejunostomy during pancreaticoduodenectomy is the most technically challenging aspect of the procedure, with its failure increasing rates of both morbidity and mortality significantly. Early identification and management of a clinically relevant post-operative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) can be critical in reducing the threat of potentially avoidable harm to the patient. The most used indicator for a CR-POPF is the level of drain fluid amylase. There are many different techniques for forming the anastomosis, with considerable analysis but no consensus on superiority. We aimed to look at our centres experience using different techniques and the trends we observed in drain amylases and clinical outcomes. Methods A prospective database of all patients in a single UK centre undergoing pancreatic or duodenal resection has been maintained. This includes patient demographics, diagnosis pre and post operatively, operative details and duration, complications, and outcomes. All patients undergoing a pancreaticoduodenectomy between 1st January 2020 and 31st July 2021 were identified and their data retrospectively analysed. Results Thirty-three patients underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy during the study period. The pancreatojejunostomy was formed using a duct-to-mucosa anastomosis in twenty-eight patients and using a dunking technique in five patients. The mean of the highest drain fluid amylase on post-operative day one for the patients with a dunking anastomosis was 14804.8 (range 3643-43686), on day three 2376.12 (range 167-8008.6) and of the three patients whose drains were in situ at day 5 it was 522.2 (range 31 to 983. An 83.9% reduction in mean drain amylases was observed between Day One and Day Three, followed by a further 78% reduction between day 3 and day. One patient (20%) had a CR-POPF with a grade B fistula, two others had a biochemical leak. The mean Day One drain amylases for patients with a duct-to-mucosa anastomosis was 71% lower at 4274.5 (range 15.4 to 41755). However this increased by 11.5% by Day Three to 4766.4 (range 5 to 46300) before falling by 64.7% to 1681.9 (range 5 to 13015) on Day Five. Eight patients (28.6%) had a CR-POPF – 3 grade B and 5 grade C fistula - and three patients had a biochemical leak. Conclusions In our centre’s experience, the type of anastomosis used to perform the pancreatic reconstruction post pancreaticoduodenostomy significantly impacts the post-operative trend in drain fluid amylase. This is important for clinicians to appreciate in order to avoid premature suspicion of a CR-POPF and prevent potentially unnecessary intervention.

Modified Technique for Wirsung-Pancreatogastric Anastomosis after Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Single Center Experience and Systematic Review of the Literature.

Background: The mortality rate following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has been decreasing over the past few years; nonetheless, the morbidity rate remains elevated. The most common complications after PD are post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and delayed gastric emptying (DGE) syndrome. The issue as to which is the best reconstruction method for the treatment of the pancreatic remnant after PD is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the morbidity rate in 100 consecutive PD reconstructed with Wirsung-Pancreato-Gastro-Anastomosis (WPGA), performed by a single surgeon applying a personal modification of the pancreatic reconstruction technique. Methods: During an 8-year period (May 2012 to March 2020), 100 consecutive patients underwent PD reconstructed with WPGA. The series included 57 males and 43 females (M/F 1.32), with a mean age of 68 (range 41–86) years. The 90-day morbidity and mortality were retrospectively analyzed. Additionally, a systematic review was conducted, comparing our technique with the existing literature on the topic. Results: We observed eight cases of clinically relevant POPF (8%), three cases of “primary” DGE (3%) and four patients suffering “secondary” DGE. The surgical morbidity and mortality rate were 26% and 6%, respectively. The median hospital stay was 13.6 days. The systematic review of the literature confirmed the originality of our modified technique for Wirsung-Pancreato-Gastro-Anastomosis. Conclusions: Our modified double-layer WPGA is associated with a very low incidence of POPF and DGE. Also, the technique avoids the risk of acute hemorrhage of the pancreatic parenchyma.

Friend or foe? Feeding tube placement at the time of pancreatoduodenectomy: propensity score case-matched analysis.

The role of concomitant gastrostomy or jejunostomy feeding tube (FT) placement during pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and its impact on patient outcomes remain controversial. NSQIP database was surveyed for patients undergoing PD between 2014 and 2017. FT placement was identified using CPT codes. Propensity scores were used to match the two groups (1:1) on baseline characteristics and intraoperative variables including pancreas specific ones (duct size, gland texture, underlying disease, wound class, use of wound protector, drain placement, type of pancreatic reconstruction and vascular reconstruction). Outcomes were compared. Finally, a subset analyses for patients with delayed gastric emptying (DGE) or postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) were performed. Out of 15,224 PD, 1,104 (7.5%) had FT. POPF and DGE rates were 17% and 18%, respectively, for the entire cohort. Feeding jejunostomy was the most placed FT (88.2%). Patients with FT placement were more likely to be older (mean, 65.8 vs. 64.6 y), smokers (22.6% vs. 17.8%) who had preoperative weight loss (22.5% vs. 15.3%), ASA class ≥ 3 (80.8% vs. 77.5%), preoperative transfusion (1.5% vs. 0.84%), chemotherapy (22.8% vs. 17.5%), and radiation (14.5% vs. 6.8%, p < 0.05). The matched cohort included 880 patients in each group with completely balanced preoperative and intraoperative characteristics. In the matched cohort, patients with FT placement had higher overall morbidity (52.2% vs. 44.3%, p = 0.001), major morbidity (28.4% vs. 22.5%, p = 0.004), organ/space infection (14.4% vs. 10.9%, p = 0.026), re-operation (8.6% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.003), DGE (26.8% vs. 16.4%, p < 0.001), and longer mean hospital length of stay (12.9 vs. 11.2days, p = 0.001) than those without FT. There was no difference in mortality (1.7% vs. 2.2%, p = 0.488) or readmission rate (20.2% vs. 17.2%, p = 0.099). In patients with DGE and POPF, FT placement was not associated with morbidity, mortality, length of stay, or readmission rate (p > 0.05). Patients with FT placement during PD tend to have higher postoperative morbidity and delayed recovery.

A comparative study of end-to-end pancreatic anastomosis versus pancreaticojejunostomy after robotic central pancreatectomy.

Robotic central pancreatectomy has been applied for 20years with the advantage of minimally invasive surgery. The general pancreatic reconstruction approaches include pancreaticojejunostomy and pancreaticogastrostomy. Recently, our group reported a few preliminary cases of application of end-to-end pancreatic anastomosis in robotic central pancreatectomy. This novel approach has not been compared with the conventional approach on a large scale. The objective of this study is to compare end-to-end pancreatic anastomosis with pancreaticojejunostomy after robotic central pancreatectomy based on the perioperative and long-term outcomes. Clinical data consist of demographics, clinicopathologic characteristics, perioperative and long-term outcomes of patients who underwent robotic central pancreatectomy from March 2015 to December 2019 were collected and analyzed. Seventy-four patients received a robotic central pancreatectomy with either end-to-end pancreatic anastomosis (n = 52) or pancreaticojejunostomy (n = 22). End-to-end pancreatic anastomosis was associated with shorter operative time and reduced blood loss. Despite a higher incidence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (69.2% vs. 36.4%, p = 0.009), the newer anastomotic technique was also associated with earlier removal of nasogastric tube and resumption of oral intake. Long-term results, in terms of either endocrine or exocrine function, were not affected by the anastomotic technique. We have shown the feasibility of robotic central pancreatectomy with end-to-end pancreatic anastomosis. Despite streamlined technique, the newer anastomosis appears to improve early post-operative results while preserving endocrine and exocrine functions in the long-term period. Evaluation of the true potential of robotic central pancreatectomy with end-to-end pancreatic anastomosis requires a prospective and randomized study enrolling a large number of patients.

Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic head cancer and periampullary lesions.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy, so‐called “Whipple operation,” is a time‐consuming and technically demanding complex operation. Traditionally, this procedure has been performed most usually by open approach, which results in a large and painful wound. With the introduction of laparoscopic and robotic surgery, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has emerged as a worldwide trend to improve wound cosmesis and to minimize wound pain. Although MIS for pancreaticoduodenectomy has also been attempted at some centers, the role of MIS, either robotic or laparoscopic approach, has not been well‐established for complex pancreaticoduodenectomy. Given that laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy has been limited by its technical complexity and the high level of advanced laparoscopic skills required for pancreatic reconstruction, a robotic surgical system is introduced to overcome several limitations related to the laparoscopic approach. Providing high‐quality three‐dimensional (3‐D) vision, high optical magnification, articulation of robotic instruments, greater precision with suture targeting, and elimination of surgeon tremor, robotic surgical systems innovatively perform more delicate and complex procedures involving extensive dissection and suturing techniques such as pancreaticoduodenectomy. Although associated with longer operative time, robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has been claimed to have the benefits of less delayed gastric emptying, less blood loss, shorter length of postoperative stay, and lower wound infection rate, as compared with the traditional open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD). Moreover, RPD seems to be not only technically feasible but also justified without compromising the survival outcomes for pancreatic head and ampullary adenocarcinomas. Therefore, RPD could be recommended not only to surgeons but also to patients in terms of surgical feasibility, surgical outcomes, and patient satisfaction.

Desafío y futuro de la cirugía robótica hepática y pancreática. Análisis de 64 casos en una unidad especializada

IntroductionRobotic surgery has proven effective in certain surgical procedures. However, in liver and pancreatic surgery (HBP) its use is still rare. The initial experience in HBP robotic surgery of a specialized unit of a tertiary hospital is presented. MethodThe results of patients undergoing robotic HBP surgery between April 2018 and October 2020 have been prospectively studied. The data analyzed correspond to demographic data, surgical techniques performed, associated morbidity and mortality. Results64 patients were operated, corresponding to 35 hepatectomies (major [6.7%], anatomic [52.9%], limited [34.4%], cystectomies [3%] and marsupialization [3%]), 29 pancreatectomies (distal [48.2%], central [6.9%], cephalic [13.8%], enucleations [24.1%], ampullectomies [3.5%] and duodenal resections [3.5%]).In liver surgery the mean operative time was 204.4 minutes (100-265 min), the median postoperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo scale was one (1-4), the mean blood losses 166.7 mL (100-300 mL), there was no conversion and the mean postoperative stay was four days (2-14 days).In pancreatic surgery, the mean operative time was 243.8 minutes (125-460 min), the median of postoperative complications was two (1-4), blood loss of 202.3 mL (100-500 mL) associated to a conversion rate 17.8% and an average stay of seven days (3-23 days). ConclusionsRobotic HBP surgery is safe and feasible. It is suggested that its use facilitates parenchymal sparing surgery, access to posterior liver segments and anastomosis in pancreatic reconstruction compared to laparoscopic surgery.