Pancreatectomy Research Articles

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with pancreatic remnant-gastric coverage: a modified technique to reduce postoperative pancreatic fistula.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified pancreatic remnant-gastric coverage technique in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP). This retrospective study analyzed clinical data from 63 patients who underwent LDP between March 2017 and April 2024 at the Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Department, The Affiliated LiHuiLi Hospital of Ningbo University. Patients were divided into two groups based on the pancreatic remnant management method: the experimental group (n = 28) underwent pancreatic remnant-gastric coverage, while the control group (n = 35) had the pancreatic remnant closed using a stapler followed by hand-sewn reinforcement. The parameters observed included general patient characteristics, intraoperative data, and postoperative data. We compared and analyzed all the above data between the two groups of patients both before and after propensity score matching (PSM). All 63 patients were successfully operated. Before PSM, the incidence of POPF (Grade B/C) in the experimental group was significantly lower than in the control group (14.3% vs 34.3%, P < 0.05). And the incidence of POPF (BL) in the experimental group was lower than in the control group (39.3% vs 51.4%). After PSM, the difference in the incidence of POPF (Grade B/C) between the two groups remained statistically significant (16.0% vs 32.0%, P < 0.05). The incidence of POPF (BL) in the experimental group was also lower than in the control group (36.0% vs 56.0%). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of operation time, pancreatic texture, thickness of pancreatic stump, intraoperative bleeding, intraoperative transfusion, post-pancreatectomy hemorrhage, abdominal infection, encapsulated effusion, or delayed gastric emptying both before and after PSM (P > 0.05). The use of the modified pancreatic remnant-gastric coverage in LDP effectively reduces the incidence of POPF and is both safe and feasible, making it a technique worth promoting.

HPB SO15 - Developing protocol for managing diabetes after Distal pancreatectomy

Abstract Background The incidence of new-onset diabetes mellitus (NODM) has been reported to be 18% to 39% after pancreaticoduodenectomy and 5% to 42% after distal pancreatectomy. Postoperative NODM is historically referred to as type 3c diabetes mellitus (DM). Postoperative HbA1c levels over 7% or 52 mmol have been identified as one of the independent risk factors for tumor recurrence and overall poor survival after cancer-related resections. This study aimed to evaluate the current practice in glycemic monitoring of patients who had distal pancreatectomy and to develop a departmental protocol for Glycemic monitoring in the perioperative period. Method Electronic medical records of 74 patients were reviewed, of these, 61 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy from Jan 2019 to Dec 2023 was included in the study. All patients with distal pancreatectomy were included irrespective of their pathological diagnosis. age or gender. Patients who died in the perioperative period or the ones who did not have distal pancreatectomy were excluded. (necrosectomy, drainage procedures, GIST, central pancreatectomy. Data analysis performed using Microsoft Excel Results The Age ranged from 24-86. 61 patients were included in the study where whereas male-to-female ratio is shown in the Pie Chart. 80% of the patients had investigations for glycemic status, Only 59% (36/61) had HBA1C done, additional 21% others had only glucose levels measured. 19.7% had no investigations to date. This graph shows the current diabetic status of patient The graph shows the variability in practice with no consistency. Overall 36% of our patients have become diabetic or Pre-diabetic post distal pancreatectomy. Conclusion There is a lack of consistency in the follow-up of our patients regarding glycemic control. This calls for the development of a defined departmental protocol for the follow-up of our patients. Every patient with pancreatectomy should have a glucose tolerance test/HBA1C pre-op in close liaison with the diabetic team. We made the following suggestions. HBA1C at 1 month post surgery in 1st clinic follow up. HBA1C every 6 months thereafter or advice GP if they were to be discharged after benign disease surgery. Information charts are to be made available to the ward base and added to the induction pack.

HPB SO78 - A Novel Application of ISGPS Guidelines for Calculating Pancreatic Fistula Rates Post-Distal Pancreatectomy

Abstract Background Post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality following distal pancreatectomy and there is continual debate regarding the optimal peri-operative practice. The impact of drain displacement on outcome is poorly understood and limited information is documented on how the ISGPS guidelines are used to determine a clinically significant POPF. This study aims to assess the POPF and drain displacement rate at our institution and identify factors predicting a clinically significant POPF. We have proposed an algorithm to standardise the interpretation of the ISGPS guidelines. Method Case records of patients undergoing left sided pancreatectomy at our institution from January 2019 to January 2024 were analysed to assess the incidence of biochemical and clinically significant POPF using ISGPS criteria. Post operative CT scans were reviewed to record drain displacement with respect to the pancreatic stump. Continuous data was represented as mean +/- SD or median(IQR) depending on normality. Appropriate statistical tests were used for comparison of continuous and categorical variables (alfa error of 5%). Receiver operating characteristic curves were performed to assess the suitability of drain fluid amylase level as a predictor of clinically significant POPF. Results A total of 56 patients qualified for analysis. There was no difference between the clinically insignificant and significant groups with respect to age, gender, BMI, pathology and surgical technique (open/laparoscopic, splenic preservation, stump reinforcement). The clinically significant group had higher day three and peak drain amylase levels. The day of peak drain amylase was significantly later in this group. The drain displacement rate was 41% and did not differ significantly between the two groups. A day 3 drain fluid amylase level of 1120(U/L) had a 74% sensitivity of predicting a clinically significant POPF. Conclusion The ISGPS guidelines do not provide explicit criteria for stratifying the grade of POPF. We propose an algorithm to standardise the interpretation of these guidelines. Drain displacement did not impact POPF rate allowing for small sample size. Day 3 fluid amylase level is a useful predictor of clinically significant POPF. Program permission yes

HPB SO26 - Evaluation of Theatre Database Accuracy in a Tertiary HPB Center According to NCIP Standards in the UK

Abstract Background The goal of creating the NCIP (National Clinical Improvement Programme) theatre data set discovery information system is to allow NHS Improvement to evaluate how theatre data can improve the attribution of surgical activities, as documented in Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) Admitted Patient Care (APC) data, to individual consultants. The success of NCIP is at risk due to the inaccurate attribution of existing activity data to consultants. Method The NCIP theatre database for the Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgery department was compiled over a 12-month period (from April 2022 to April 2023) and analyzed based on the operating consultant recorded in the operative notes, clinical letters, and the Carfelow system (admitting office records). Results In Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH), 143 major liver and pancreatic resections were performed, including 38 Whipple’s procedures (both classic and Pylorus-preserving Pancreatico-Duodenectomy), 19 Distal Pancreatectomies, and 86 Liver resections. Of these, only 58 patients (40.6%) had correct entries in the NCIP database regarding the operating surgeon. The NCIP data inaccuracies for the operating consultant were 65.8% (25/38) for Whipple’s procedures, 57.9% (11/19) for Distal Pancreatectomies, and 56.97% (49/86) for Liver resections. Conversely, the NCIP data was 100% accurate concerning the assigned consultant on Careflow, which matches the clinical letters from the outpatient clinic. Conclusion The gap between the NCIP database and the admitting office database leads to inaccurate attributions of surgical activity. This hinders learning and improvement efforts essential for achieving program benefits and prevents providers from complying with license conditions and delivering efficient healthcare services. To ensure accurate HES data, admitting officers should request proper communication and accurate consultant codes from consultant secretaries to ensure accurate data across the different hospital systems

HPB SO12 - Comparison of outcomes between stapled closure and sutured closure of pancreatic stump following robotic distal pancreatectomy

Abstract Background Postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPFs) are associated with high patient mortality and morbidity. There are multiple approaches in managing pancreatic stumps following distal pancreatectomy. We compared the outcomes between sutured closure and stapled closure following robotic distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, and the associated cost difference between the two techniques. Method We retrospectively analysed consecutive robotic distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy cases between October 2022 and January 2024 in a single United Kingdom tertiary hospital. Stapled closure was the initial standard approach. Sutured closure utilising 3/0 Prolene was regularly performed from July 2023. The study cohort was divided into these two groups and outcomes were compared. Primary outcome was POPF rates and secondary outcomes included postoperative length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission rates and postoperative complications graded by Clavien-Dindo classification (CDC). Equipment costs for the respective procedures were obtained from hospital procurement team. Results 36 patients were reviewed; 14 (38.9%) were stapled and 22 (61.1%) were sutured. Patient characteristics including mean age, gender and ASA grade were similar in both groups. 23/36 (63.9%) patients had confirmed malignancy on postoperative histopathology – similar distribution in both groups. 6/14 (42.9%) in the stapled group vs 4/22 (18.2%) in the sutured group developed POPF Grade B (p=0.14). LOS, 30-day readmission and CDC complication rates were similar in both groups. Median costs were £2236.40 and £1541.86 in the stapled and sutured groups respectively. Conclusion Sutured closure of pancreatic stump yielded similar outcomes to stapled closure following robotic distal pancreatectomy, associated with a significant cost saving in favour of sutured closure.

HPB SO74 - Autologous Islet Transplantation combined with Pancreatic resection in Adults and Children

Abstract Background After extended pancreatic resections there is a risk of developing difficult to manage diabetes. The current NHS commissioning criteria only allows autologous islet isolation and transplantation in adult patients having total pancreatectomy for chronic pancreatitis. We present our experience of pancreatic resection combined with autologous islet transplantation (AIT) in both adults and children. Method Patients were assessed for AIT electively or as an emergency if an extended resection was required for trauma. Patients with chronic pancreatitis were assessed for Total Pancreatectomy (TP) by a multi-disciplinary team which included gastroenterologists, diabetes physicians, pain specialists, surgeons and psychiatrists. A similar approach was used in children. Patients were evaluated pre-operatively with a MMT to assess any borderline diabetes. Results 22 (20 adults and 2 children, age range 9-64 yrs) patients underwent pancreas resection with AIT. Two patients had islet isolated remotely (Edinburgh and Kings College). Five received AIT for trauma (one total and four subtotal). Other indications included Chronic Pancreatitis (n=17) one of which had Familial Hyocalciuric Hypercalcaemia. Ten had gene mutations PRSS1 (n=6) or SPINK1 (n=4). Mean number of islets transplanted were 1534 IEQ/kg ranging in total from &amp;lt;5000- 443,000 IEQ. Patients with mutations received lower numbers of islets. Five remained insulin independent, overall 78% had measurable C peptide. 4/17 Chronic pancreatitis still have abdominal pain. Conclusion Pancreas resection combined with AIT is a viable treatment for both adults and children, even in those presenting with severe pancreatic trauma. Achieving good islet yields in patients with gene mutation remains a problem and is related to the extent of disease and duration of symptoms. Timing of TPIAT in these patients is critical if good outcomes are to be achieved.

Laparoscopic total pancreatectomy with total mesopancreas dissection using counterclockwise technique and tail-first approach.

Laparoscopic total pancreatectomy (LTP) is technically challenging and infrequently documented in the literature. In this paper, we present a new approach for performing fully LTP, a pancreatic tail-first approach with a counterclockwise technique, to accomplish total mesopancreas dissection and standard lymphadenectomy en bloc. Firstly, the tail and body of the pancreas without the spleen were dissected retrogradely, starting from the lower border of the body of pancreas and then from left to right. After that, a counterclockwise dissection of the tail and body of the pancreas was performed. The splenic artery and vein were divided at the terminal end of the pancreatic tail. The spleen was preserved. The entire body and tail of the pancreas were then pulled to the right side. This maneuver facilitated the isolation and dissection of arteries in the retropancreatic region more easily via laparoscopy, including the splenic artery, gastroduodenal artery, and supporting superior mesenteric artery first-approach. It also enabled total mesopancreas dissection. The inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery was resected last during this phase. The remainder of the dissection was like that of a laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy with total mesopancreas dissection, involving two laparoscopic manual anastomoses. The operative time was 490 minutes and the total blood loss was 100 mL. Pathology revealed a low-grade intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm extending from the head to the tail of the pancreas.

Risk factors and predictive model development for high blood loss in minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy: a retrospective cohort study.

High blood loss is an adverse event related to increased morbidity and poorer outcomes in pancreatic surgery patients. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors and establish a predictive model for high perioperative blood loss (HPBL) in minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP). We collected data from 353 patients who underwent MIDP at a university affiliated tertiary hospital between January 2016 and October 2023. Perioperative blood loss was calculated based on pre- and postoperative hemoglobin concentrations according to a combination of the formulas provided by Nadler and Gross. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed for the training cohort to identify the clinical factors independently associated with perioperative blood loss (PBL). A predictive nomogram based on these factors was established and validated. Weight, imaging findings, serum albumin concentration, MIDP experience, spleen treatment, and operation time were independent predictors for HPBL. The established model for predicting HPBL showed that the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.799 (95% CI = 0.746-0.853) and 0.852 (95% CI = 0.760-0.943) for the training cohort and validation cohort, respectively. When utilized to predict blood transfusion, the AUC was 0.778 (95% CI = 0.691-0.865) in the training cohort and 0.818 (95% CI = 0.681-0.955) in the validation cohort. Patients with a high predicted risk had significantly higher incidences of postoperative pancreatic fistula, intra-abdominal infection, and longer hospital stays than patients with a low risk. We established and validated a model for predicting HPBL in MIDP patients. This novel model may have future utility when generating surgical strategies.

Alloplastic Vascular Grafts for Venous Interposition in Pancreatic Surgery: Readily Available and Reliable.

To investigate patency and clinical outcomes of alloplastic and other venous interposition graft materials in pancreatic surgery. Vascular pancreatic surgery is increasingly performed for locally advanced pancreatic neoplasms. Different than other centers, we prefer to use alloplastic vascular graft materials for superior mesenteric vein and portal vein interposition in pancreatic surgery. Advantages are off-the-shelf availability at any customizable length, different diameters, and ring-enforcement but proposed concerns are their thrombogenicity and fatal complications. Patients who underwent elective pancreatic resections with mesoportal venous interposition grafts (ISGPS type 4) between 2003-2022 were identified from the institutional pancreatectomy registry. Alloplastic vascular grafts imply synthetic materials, either based on polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Surgical details, clinicopathological, and follow-up data were analyzed. The patients were followed for graft patency by cross-sectional imaging. In this study, 201 patients with venous interposition grafts were included (23% simultaneous arterial resections). Total pancreatectomy (41%) and pancreatoduodenectomy (35%) were the most frequent procedures. Vascular graft materials were alloplastic in 180 patients (83% PTFE and 17% PET) with a median diameter of 10mm and a median length of 33mm (measurement by CT scan). Patency rates among all graft materials at 7-, 30-, and 90-days were 99%, 93%, and 87%. Alloplastic grafts demonstrated superior patency over other materials (hazard ratio 2.7, P=0.009), and PTFE reached a 1-year patency of 78%. The all-cause 90-day mortality rate was 10%. No graft infection occurred. Alloplastic venous vascular grafts are safe and readily available tools in pancreatic surgery, especially for long-segmental mesoportal venous reconstructions.

Decision regret and satisfaction with shared decision-making in pancreatic surgery

BackgroundPancreatic surgery often does not provide long-term survival in patients with cancer or consistently improve symptoms in benign disease. This study aimed to assess decision regret and satisfaction with the decision-making process among patients who underwent pancreatectomy. MethodsThis study administered the Brehaut Decision Regret Scale (DRS), 9-Item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9), and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) to all patients who underwent elective pancreatectomies from 2021 to 2023. Decision regret was defined as a DRS of >25. In addition, this study evaluated SDM-Q-9 responses in patients with and without regret. ResultsA total of 143 patients were included in this study, of whom 71 patients (49.6%) completed the distributed surveys. Demographics, pathology, and major complication rates were similar between responders and nonresponders. The indications for surgery were malignancy (67.6%) and benign disease (32.4%). Decision regret after pancreatic surgery was reported in 18.3% of patients. Patients who experienced regret were younger (50.8 ± 18.7 years [younger group] vs 62.0 ± 14.9 years [older group]; P = .03), more likely to have benign disease (39.1% [benign disease] vs 8.3% [malignant disease]; P < .01), underwent a distal pancreatectomy (34.5% [distal pancreatectomy] vs 7.7% [pancreaticoduodenectomy]; P = .02), or experienced a major complication (36.8% [major complication] vs 11.5% [no major complication]; P = .03). Patients with regret had lower global health (57.1 ± 20.1 [patients with regret] vs 76.2 ± 22.2 [patients without regret]; P < .01) and social function scores (61.5 ± 31.5 [patients with regret] vs 77.6 ± 22.0 [patients without regret]; P = .03) on the EORTC QLQ-C30. Patients with regret were less satisfied with the shared decision-making process. ConclusionStrong decision regret was reported in 18% of patients who underwent pancreatectomy. Younger age, distal pancreatectomy, benign indications, and major postoperative complications were associated with regret. Data from the SDM-9 highlight areas for potential improvement to help patients make decisions aligned with their goals of care.

"Minimally Invasive and Open Distal Pancreatectomy: Equally Safe in Terms of VTE Risk"

"Minimally Invasive and Open Distal Pancreatectomy: Equally Safe in Terms of VTE Risk"

Gastric metastasis from renal cell carcinoma with submucosal invasion treated by surgical full-thickness resection: a case report

BackgroundMetastatic gastric tumors are rare and malignant melanoma, breast cancer, lung cancer, and esophageal cancer are common as primary lesions. On the other hand, renal cell carcinoma is easy to metastasize hematogenously to the whole body. However, metastasis to the stomach is rare and the detailed treatment of gastric metastasis is not mentioned. In this study, we report an uncommon case of gastric metastasis from renal cell carcinoma that underwent surgical full-thickness resection and reviewed the literature for treatment options.Case presentationThe patient was a female in her 60s and in January 2007, she underwent a transabdominal left nephrectomy for clear cell carcinoma of the left kidney. The pathological diagnosis was pT2N0M0 stage II. In October 2017, a total pancreatectomy with D2 dissection was performed for multiple pancreatic masses, in which the pathological diagnosis was pancreatic metastasis of renal cell cancer. In May 2019, an esophagogastroduodenoscopy for heartburn revealed redness and erosion in the greater curvature of the residual gastric body. The pathological diagnosis was gastric metastasis from renal cell carcinoma. No metastatic findings were observed and gastric wedge resection was performed. Pathological diagnosis of the resected specimen showed a 4-mm tumor, mainly within the mucosa and partly extended to the submucosal layer in 500 µm. The resected specimen had a clear resection margin.ConclusionsIn this study, we report a case in which a full-thickness resection was performed for gastric metastasis 12 years after renal cancer surgery and 2 years after pancreatic metastasis surgery. The patient survived 4 years and 8 months after gastric wedge resection. Although gastric metastasis often takes the form of submucosal tumors, it is necessary to select full-thickness resection for R0 resection, even in small and flat lesions.

Morbidity and Mortality Following Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Measuring postoperative outcomes after complex cancer operations such as pancreatectomy is vital to improve cancer surgery in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs); however, such data is often limited. This study aimed to review existing research and obtain baseline estimates for postoperative mortality and morbidity after pancreatic cancer surgery in LMICs. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, and Global Index Medicus were systematically searched for original articles published between January 2005 and May 2022. LMICs based studies reporting postoperative mortality, morbidity, and/or length of stay of patients with primary pancreatic tumors undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy and/or distal pancreatectomy were included. Of 18 344 unique titles and abstracts retrieved, 114 studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 51 "good" quality studies comprising 7528 patients were included in the meta-analyses. Pooled estimates for pancreatic fistula were 16.6% (95% CI 14.0-19.7, p < 0.001); 16.0% (95% CI 11.1-22.5, p < 0.001) for Clavien-Dindo grade 3 and 4 complications; 13.4% (95% CI 9.8-17.9, p < 0.001) for wound infection; and 4.4% (95% CI 3.3-5.7, p < 0.001) for postoperative mortality. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis examining surgical complications after pancreatic surgery in LMICs. We highlight a lack of data and the need to further evaluate surgical outcomes in LMICs.

Mammary myofibroblastoma of the male breast: a case report and literature review.

Mammary myofibroblastoma (MFB) is a rare benign spindle cell tumour predominantly affecting males, but also observed in postmenopausal females. Its diagnosis remains challenging owing to overlapping histological features with malignant lesions and limited tissue sampling in core biopsies. We present a case of incidentally discovered mammary MFB in a 63-year-old man and review its clinical, radiological and histopathological characteristics. The patient, who had a history of distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, presented with an incidental left anterior chest wall nodule discovered on computed tomography scan. Clinical examination revealed a benign left retroareolar lump, confirmed by breast ultrasound and mammography. Ultrasound-guided core biopsy demonstrated characteristic spindle cells, prompting immunohistochemical staining confirming the diagnosis of MFB. The lesion was surgically excised with clear margins. Mammary MFB is commonly seen in postmenopausal women and older men, presenting as painless, mobile breast lumps. Imaging findings are nonspecific, resembling fibroadenomas or fat necrosis. Histologically, MFB lacks mammary ducts or lobules and displays characteristic spindle cells with collagenous stroma. Immunohistochemistry aids in differentiating it from other spindle cell tumours. Surgical excision is curative, with no reported cases with recurrence. Mammary MFB should be considered in the differential diagnosis of breast masses in males and postmenopausal women. Despite the challenges in diagnosis, its benign nature and favourable prognosis warrant timely recognition and appropriate management through surgical excision. Further research is needed to establish clear management guidelines and explore its underlying pathogenesis.

Liraglutide for the Treatment of Severe Hypoglycemia Following Total Pancreatectomy and Islet Autotransplantation

Abstract Total pancreatectomy and islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) is an effective treatment for chronic and recurrent acute pancreatitis, and it provides a significant potential additional benefit of insulin independence. Spontaneous hypoglycemia in the absence of insulin therapy following TPIAT is a recognized complication, which has been attributed to lack of protective glucagon responses to hypoglycemia, following intrahepatic islet autotransplantation. We describe the use of liraglutide to treat spontaneous hypoglycemia following TPIAT. Continuous glucose monitoring was used to identify timing of hypoglycemia in relation to meals and monitor treatment effect. Liraglutide has been used for management of hypoglycemia following bariatric surgery, but, to our knowledge, this is the first application of its effective use to treat spontaneous severe hypoglycemia following TPIAT.

Leukocytosis and thrombocytosis after splenectomy: expected finding, infection, or something else: a case report

BackgroundLeukocytosis and thrombocytosis often follow splenectomy in blunt trauma patients, complicating the postoperative identification of infection. While the platelet count to white blood cell ratio provides diagnostic assistance to discern between expected laboratory alterations and infection, diagnoses such as leukemia are often overlooked.Case presentationA 53-year-old Hispanic male presented with abdominal pain, nausea, tachycardia, and focal peritonitis 4 days after being assaulted and struck multiple times in the abdomen. Initial white blood cell count was 38.4 × 109/L, platelet count was 691 × 109/L, and lipase was 55 U/L. Computed tomography abdomen/pelvis demonstrated a hematoma encasing the distal pancreas and abutting the stomach and colon. Emergent laparotomy revealed a nearly transected pancreas and devascularized colon, necessitating a distal pancreatectomy, splenectomy, and colonic resection with primary anastomosis. Postoperatively, he had a persistently elevated leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, segmented neutrophils, eosinophilia, and basophilia (peak at 70, 2293, 64, 1.1, and 1.2 × 109/L, respectively). Despite sepsis workup, including repeat computed tomography, no source was identified. Hematology/oncology was consulted for concern for hematologic etiology, with genetic testing and bone marrow biopsy performed. The diagnosis of breakpoint cluster–Abelson gene-positive chronic myeloid leukemia was made based on genetic tests, including polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis, which confirmed the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome. Bone marrow biopsy suggested a chronic phase. The patient was treated with hydroxyurea and transitioned to imatinib.ConclusionsThrombocytosis following splenectomy is a common complication and a plate count to white blood cell count ratio < 20 indicates infectious etiology. A significantly elevated white blood cell count (> 50 × 109/L) and thrombocytosis (> 2000 × 109/L) may suggest something more ominous, including chronic myeloid leukemia , particularly when elevated granulocyte counts are present. Chronic myeloid leukemia workup includes peripheral smear, bone marrow aspiration, and determination of Philadelphia chromosome. Post-splenectomy vaccines are still indicated within 14 days; however, the timing of immunization with cancer treatment must be considered. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are the first-line therapy and benefits of pretreatment with hydroxyurea for cytoreduction remain under investigation. Additionally, tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been associated with gastrointestinal perforation and impaired wound healing, necessitating heightened attention in patients with a new bowel anastomosis.

A comparative analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic total pancreatectomy: insights from the National Cancer Database.

Total pancreatectomy is a complex procedure used in the management of pancreatic cancer. While minimally invasive techniques have been increasingly adopted, limited data exist comparing robotic total pancreatectomy (RTP) and laparoscopic total pancreatectomy (LTP). This study evaluates the utilization, short- and long-term outcomes of RTP and LTP using the National Cancer Database. Patients with stages I-III pancreatic adenocarcinoma who underwent RTP or LTP between 2010 and 2019 were identified. Patient demographics, treatment characteristics, pathologic outcomes, postoperative outcomes, and overall survival were compared. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional-hazards models were used to assess the association of surgical approach with outcomes. Of the 995 patients included, 188 (19%) underwent RTP and 807 (81%) underwent LTP. The utilization of minimally invasive techniques increased over time, with RTP accounting for 24% of cases in 2019. RTP had lower conversion rates than LTP (16% vs. 24%, p = 0.031), but this difference was not significant after adjusting for confounders. Postoperative outcomes, including length of stay, 30-day readmission, and 30- and 90-day mortality, were similar between RTP and LTP. The median overall survival was 22.3months for RTP and 23.6months for LTP (p = 0.647). RTP and LTP demonstrate comparable perioperative, pathological, and oncological outcomes for the management of pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Despite the increasing adoption of minimally invasive total pancreatectomy, it remains a rare operation and should be performed in experienced centers to optimize outcomes.

The efficacy of wrapping with polyglycolic acid mesh and fibrin glue in preventing clinically relevant pancreatic fistula after minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (WRAP Study): study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial in Japan

BackgroundPostoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) continues to be the most common complication after distal pancreatectomy (DP). Recent advancements in surgical techniques have established minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP) as the standard treatment for various conditions, including pancreatic cancer. However, MIDP has not demonstrated a clear advantage over open DP in terms of POPF rates, indicating the need for additional strategies to prevent POPF in MIDP. This trial (WRAP study) aims to evaluate the efficacy of wrapping the pancreatic stump with polyglycolic acid (PGA) mesh and fibrin glue in preventing clinically relevant (CR-) POPF following MIDP.MethodsThis multicenter, randomized controlled trial will include patients scheduled for laparoscopic or robotic DP for tumors in the pancreatic body and/or tail. Eligible participants will be centrally randomized into either the control group (Group A) or the intervention group (Group B), where the pancreatic stump will be reinforced by PGA mesh and fibrin glue. In both groups, pancreatic transection will be performed using a bioabsorbable reinforcement-attached stapler. A total of 172 patients will be enrolled across 14 high-volume centers in Japan. The primary endpoint is the incidence of CR-POPF (International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery grade B/C).DiscussionThe WRAP study will determine whether the reinforcement of the pancreatic stump with PGA mesh and fibrin glue, a technique whose utility has been previously debated, could become the best practice in the era of MIDP, thereby enhancing its safety.Trial registrationThis trial was registered with the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials on June 15, 2024 (jRCTs032240120).

Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor of the Pancreas with Molecular Confirmation: A Case Report with Comprehensive Histopathologic and Molecular Characterization

Abstract Introduction/Objective Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) are rare soft tissue sarcomas arising from a peripheral nerve or exhibiting nerve sheath differentiation. They are often associated with neurofibromatosis type 1, and most often arise in the trunk, extremities, or head and neck region. In patients without neurofibromatosis type 1, sporadic de novo or radiotherapy-associated MPNSTs can pose a diagnostic challenge. MPNSTs arising from visceral organs are exceedingly rare. Here we report a case of MPNST arising in the pancreas. Methods/Case Report The patient is a 75-year-old female, MUTYH mutation carrier, with prior history of breast and bladder cancers, each treated with respective local excision and radiation therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed for pancreatic cancer screening showed a 4.7 cm heterogeneous mass in the pancreatic tail suggestive of pancreatic neoplasm. Fine needle aspiration cytology was non-diagnostic. However, due to the radiologic concern for malignancy, the patient proceeded with surgical resection by distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy. Macroscopically, a 6.5 cm, tan-white, partially necrotic mass was identified in the pancreatic tail. Microscopic examination showed a spindle cell neoplasm arranged in a vague fascicular fashion with moderate nuclear pleomorphism, geographic necrosis, and frequent mitotic figures (15 per 10 high power fields). Fifteen lymph nodes were negative for metastasis. The tumor was confined to the pancreas grossly and microscopically. Immunohistochemical stains showed the neoplastic spindle cells to be positive for TLE1 (diffuse) and S100 (patchy), while negative for SOX10, CD117, DOG1, desmin, actin, MyoD1, ERG, STAT6, and ALK1. In addition, H3K27me3 showed loss of nuclear expression. Next generation sequencing (NGS) revealed gene mutations in NF1, TP53, PIK3CA, and PTEN, and copy number losses involving CDKN2A and CDKN2B. Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis was performed which revealed copy number losses of CDKN2A/B and gains of PTCH1 and MDM2. However, the Sarcoma DNA Methylation Classifier did not provide any diagnostic matches. Overall, the morphologic features, loss of H3K27me3 expression, presence of NF1 and TP53 mutations, and copy number losses in CDKN2A/B supported a diagnosis of high-grade MPNST. The patient has been followed clinically without adjuvant therapy. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) N/A Conclusion We report an extremely rare case of MPNST of the pancreas with molecular confirmation.

Crashing into Discovery: Nesidioblastosis in Adult, Unmasked post-Motor Vehicle Accident - A Case Study and Literature Review

Abstract Introduction/Objective Nesidioblastosis, characterized by pancreatic duct-derived B-islet cell proliferation, typically manifests with hypoglycemic symptoms. While more common in newborns, it can rarely affect adults. Here, we report an incidental finding of nesidioblastosis in a 37-year-old female following abdominal trauma due to a motor vehicle crash (MVC). Methods/Case Report A 37-year-old female with no notable medical history presented with blunt abdominal trauma following an MVC. The emergency evaluation revealed a grade 4 traumatic splenic laceration and severe hemoperitoneum. Preoperative lab results showed decreased hemoglobin, elevated white cell count, prolonged prothrombin time, and reduced calcium and magnesium levels. The patient underwent a splenectomy along with a distal pancreatectomy. While grossly unremarkable, microscopic examination revealed maintained acinar architecture with focal hyperplasia around pancreatic ducts. Enlarged acinar cells with pleomorphic nuclei and prominent nucleoli were consistent with focal nesidioblastosis. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) NA Conclusion Multiple studies have documented the first reported case of nesidioblastosis in adults was in 1975. While its exact incidence is uncertain, most sources suggest a relative frequency of 0.5 – 7% of persistent hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, with estimated overall an annual rate of around 9 per 100,000, with a higher occurrence among females. This unusual incidental discovery of nesidioblastosis in an asymptomatic patient undergoing pancreatic resection for unrelated reasons highlights the likelihood of underestimating the actual prevalence of this disease.