Pancreatic Head Tumor Research Articles

Effect of warm and cold ischemia on pancreaticoduodenectomy specimen following robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy

BackgroundThe adoption of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has increased in recent years for the treatment of pancreatic head tumors and periampullary lesions. Some potential benefits seem to be demonstrated; however, obtaining specimens through this method can potentially compromise the diagnosis depending on the timing of the specimen retrieval, and the impact of longer perioperative time on ischemia and autolysis of the surgical specimen has not been analyzed. The aim of this study is to evaluate the histological changes associated with timing of specimen retrieval during robotic PD.MethodsA review of histopathology files was performed for all pancreatic specimens collected at our hospital from January 2022 to March 2024. Both warm ischemia time (WIT) and cold ischemia time (CIT) were collected. Histological features related to ischemic damage were evaluated in normal duodenal and pancreatic parenchyma as well as pancreatic tumor, and were graded as: absent, mild, moderate and severe. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine which variables were associated with moderate and severe ischemic changes.ResultsSixty surgical specimens were analyzed: 20 open PD, 17 robotic PD with cold ischemia, and 23 robotic PD. Median total WIT was 182 min (open PD 57 min vs. RPD 190 min vs. RPD-CI 198 min; p < 0.001). Median CIT was 760 min (740–835) in samples stored at 4ºC. Univariate analysis showed that longer intraoperative time, male gender and cold ischemia were associated with pancreatic tissue ischemic changes. In multivariate analysis, cold ischemia was the only independent factor associated with normal pancreatic tissue and tumor tissue moderate and severe ischemic changes.ConclusionsProlonged ischemia time, especially in the case of cold storage, has a strong effect on the degradation of normal and tumor tissue without affecting pathological evaluation. Operative teams should aim to optimize both the duration and efficiency of the surgical procedure, ensuring minimal ischemic time. Simultaneously, pathology departments must be equipped to process pancreatic specimens promptly, with protocols in place to minimize the time between resection and analysis.

Evaluation of vascular invasion in pancreatic head tumors and its impact on radical surgical treatment

Objective. To evaluate the informativeness and sensitivity of radiological criteria for vascular invasion in pancreatic head tumors in comparison with intraoperative data and results of routine pathological examination. Materials and methods. The study included 98 patients with ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head with suspected venous invasion and spread of tumor growth along the vessels of the portomesenteric axis, who were operated on at the Department of Pancreatic and Bile Duct Surgery of the National Research Center of Surgery and Transplantation named after O. A. Shalimov in the period from 2019 to 2023. Group 1 included 51 (52.0%) patients who underwent radical surgery with resection of the superior mesenteric/hepatic portal vein and extended lymph and neurodissection, and group 2 included 47 (48.0%) patients who had positive vascular margins of pancreatic resection according to routine pathological examination. Diagnostic criteria for vascular alterations were developed. A comparative analysis of the informativeness of the developed criteria and the results of a routine pathological examination was performed. The edges of the pancreatic resection were evaluated, including the neck of the gland, common bile duct, duodenum/gastric duct, and the bed of the superior mesenteric/hepatic portal vein and superior mesenteric artery separately. R1 status was defined as the presence of tumor cells at a distance of less than 1 mm to the resection margin. Results. According to the criteria of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) 2023.2, 61 (62.2%) patients had a marginally resectable stage of ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head and tumor contact with the superior mesenteric/hepatic veins according to multislice computed tomography of the abdominal cavity. In group 1, there were 36 (70.6%) such patients, in group 2 – 25 (53.2%). According to the proposed radiologic criteria for vascular invasion, tumor contact with the superior mesenteric/hepatic portal veins was suspected in 76 (77.6%) patients, which is higher than in the standard approach. Determination of vascular alterations according to the results of our study is a more reliable method for diagnosing invasion of the superior mesenteric/hepatic portal vein (χ2 = 5.46, p = 0.019) and predicting the performance of radical surgery, including vascular resection. Conclusions. The proposed criteria for the radiological diagnosis of vascular invasion at the preoperative stage increased the sensitivity of this method from 62.2 to 77.6%. The most frequent radiological signs of vascular alteration are vascular wall irregularity (47.7%) and parapancreatic tissue density (62.5%). In the presence of any of the radiological signs of vascular alteration, resection of the affected area of the superior mesenteric/hepatic portal vein with extended lymph and neurodissection is indicated, which allows a statistically significant increase in the number of R0 resections.

Clinical application of inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery management in laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy

Objective: To investigate the clinical effect of proper management of inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery (IPDA) in laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD). Methods: This is a retrospective case series study. The clinical and pathological data of 70 patients who received LPD due to pancreatic head tumors, periampullary tumors, or distal common bile duct tumors in the Pancreatic Center of the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine from January to December 2022 were retrospectively collected. There were 47 males(67.1%) and 23 females(32.9%),aged (59.9±12.8)years(range:13 to 87 years).The procedure of IPDA exposure was as follows:a middle approach was utilized to expose the right half of superior mesenteric artery(SMA) and its right branches between the SMA and superior mesenteric vein(SMV) in superior colonic region. In the subcolonic region,SMA trunk exposure via dissection along the jejunal artery from feet to head and identification the association between IPDA and jejunal artery were prior to IPDA root ligation and dissection. The safety and efficacy of intraoperative IPDA handling were assessed based on surgical videos. Follow-up was carried out in outpatient clinic or by telephone, and outpatient follow-up was conducted once every 1 to 3 months after surgery. Results: The percentage of total LPD was 98.6%(69/70),with all patients achieving R0 resection. Nine cases(12.9%) were involved in combined vascular resection and reconstruction,with 1 case (1.4%) requiring additional upper abdominal incision for vascular and gastrointestinal reconstruction,while the remaining eight cases (11.4%) were completed laparoscopically. The operative time was (432.7±115.4)minutes(range:282 to 727 minutes), and the blood loss was (140.0±125.7)ml(range:20 to 800 ml). Only two patients(2.9%) received fresh frozen plasma transfusion,with an average volume of 650 ml. Reliable ligation and safe handling of the IPDA were achieved in 91.4%(64/70) of cases, with 8.6%(6/70) suffering from IPDA injury-related bleeding. No one was converted to opened surgery. Pathologically,the mean tumor size was (3.3±1.6)cm (range:1 to 7 cm),and the mean number of harvested lymph nodes was 17.0±7.3(range:0 to 46). Lymph node metastasis was observed in 13 cases (18.6%). Five cases (13.2%) developed grade B pancreatic fistula,while no grade C pancreatic fistula occurred. Other complications included bile leakage in one case(1.4%),delayed gastric emptying in two cases(2.9%), lymphatic leakage in 2 cases(2.9%),intra-abdominal infection in 9 cases(12.9%),and fat liquefaction of surgical incision in 1 case(1.4%). Two cases(2.9%) experienced postoperative intra-abdominal bleeding,one due to mesangial bleeding of lesser curvature of the stomach and the other due to oozing from the hepatic arterial sheath. These bleeding events were not concerned with IPDA. The average length of postoperative hospital stay was (15.2±4.6)days(range:9 to 28 days). Conclusion: Proper intraoperative management of IPDA in LPD might reduce IPDA-related bleeding during and after surgery and improve the safety of LPD.

Robot-Assisted Pancreaticoduodenectomy Using the Anterior Superior Mesenteric Artery-First Approach for Pancreatic Cancer

BackgroundThe superior mesenteric artery (SMA)-first approach for pancreatic cancer (PC) is common surgical technique in pancreaticoduodenectomy. To date, few studies have reported SMA-first approach in robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD). Herein, we present the anterior SMA-first approach for PC during RPD.Patient and MethodA 75-year-old man with resectable PC underwent RPD after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. As pancreatic head tumor contacted with the superior mesenteric vein (SMV), the anterior SMA approach was applied. After the mesenteric Kocher maneuver, the jejunum was divided and the left side of the SMA was dissected. Subsequently, the anterior plane of the SMA was dissected. Following the division of branches from the mesenteric vessels, the SMA was taped, and the circumferential dissection around the SMA was performed to detach the pancreatic neck from the SMA completely. Finally, the dissection between the SMV and the tumor was performed under vascular control to remove the specimen.ConclusionsThe anterior SMA-first approach can be optional in patients with PC undergoing RPD. This unique approach allows for the circumferential dissection around the SMA during RPD.

Laparoscopic enucleation of tumors embedded in the pancreatic head: Safety and feasibility

BackgroundSurgical treatment for a benign or low-grade malignant tumor in the pancreatic head remains a challenge at present. As an organ-sparing procedure, enucleation is ideal. However, it is still controversial whether laparoscopic enucleation (LapEN) can be safely performed for a pancreatic head tumor, especially a deeply embedded one. MethodsThe cases who underwent LapEN of a pancreatic tumor from January 2014 to September 2022 in our hospital were collected and analyzed. ResultsA total of 151 cases were collected. The incidence of pancreatic fistula (PF, grade B) was 21.9%. No patient developed PF (grade C) or died. Compared with enucleating a tumor in the distal pancreas (N = 98), enucleating a tumor in the pancreatic head (N = 53) showed a longer operation time and a higher incidence of conversion. The cases with a tumor in the pancreatic head were then divided into the group with a deeply embedded tumor (N = 32) and the group with a superficial tumor (N = 21). The embedded group had a smaller tumor size and a higher proportion of insulinoma. There were no statistical differences in the parameters of operation time, blood loss and incidence of complications between the two groups. The outcomes of enucleating a tumor deeply embedded in the proximal and distal pancreas were further analyzed, which indicated no statistical differences in clinical parameters between the two groups. ConclusionLapEN of a tumor in the pancreatic head is feasible and safe, even for a deeply embedded tumor.

A case of resected anaplastic carcinoma of the pancreas producing granulocyte-colony stimulating factor with literature review

BackgroundGranulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-producing tumors have been reported in various organs, and the prognosis of patients with G-CSF-producing pancreatic cancers is particularly dismal. In this report, we present a case of G-CSF-producing anaplastic carcinoma of the pancreas (ACP), characterized by early postoperative recurrence and rapid, uncontrolled growth.Case presentationA 74-year-old man presented to our hospital with complaints of abdominal fullness and pain after eating. On admission, it was observed that the peripheral leukocyte counts and serum G-CSF levels were significantly elevated (23,770/µL and 251 pg/mL, respectively). Computed tomography of the abdomen revealed a pancreatic head tumor involving the superior mesenteric vein. Pathologically, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration confirmed ACP. Subsequently, we performed a subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy with portal vein reconstruction and partial transverse colon resection. On postoperative day (POD) 7, the leukocyte count decreased from 21,180/μL to 8490/μL; moreover, computed tomography revealed liver metastasis. Therefore, mFOLFILINOX chemotherapy was initiated on POD 30. However, the tumor exhibited rapid progression, and the patient died on POD 45.ConclusionsG-CSF-producing ACP is rare, and the prognosis of patients is extremely poor. Basic research is required to develop effective drugs against G-CSF-producing tumors, and large-scale studies using national databases are needed to develop multidisciplinary treatment methods.

Clinical determinants of survival in patients with stage II-III pancreatic cancer.

56 Background: We sought to identify the clinical determinants of overall survival (OS) in patients diagnosed with stage II-III pancreatic cancer not undergoing surgery. We curated a relatively homogenous cohort of patients who did not undergo surgical resection, but instead underwent chemotherapy in sequence with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to examine the features that differentiated those with poor OS. Methods: In a retrospective study, we examined a cohort of 259 patients with stage II-III pancreatic cancer who underwent chemotherapy in sequence with SBRT without surgery at a single institution (Stanford Health Care). We conducted both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses to assess the relationships between OS and individual clinical and tumoral variables, including: age, sex, stage, Karnofsky performance status (KPS), body mass index, vessel involvement, tumor location, and biological equivalent dose [BED] of SBRT as potential determinants. Results: The study cohort consisted of 136 men (52.5%) and 123 women (47.5%) with a median age of 69 (range 38-94). Tumor histology was predominantly ductal adenocarcinoma (n=249, 96.1%), with tumor sites of involvement spanning: uncinate (n=35, 13.5%), head (n=160, 61.8%), body (n=59, 22.8%), and tail (n=5,1.9%). More patients had stage III (n=171, 66%) than stage II (n=88, 34%) disease, and their tumor resectability by NCCN criteria were rated as: unresectable (n=145, 56%), borderline (n=28, 10.8%), resectable (n=11, 4.2%), or unrecorded (n=75, 29%). Tumor progression was observed in local (n=71, 27.4%), regional (n=29, 11.2%), and distant (n=150, 57.9%) sites during the median follow up period of 17 months (range 15-18 months) from diagnosis and 12 months (10-13 months) from SBRT. Death (n=213, 82.2%) during this period was more common than survival (n=46, 17.8%). In univariate analyses, clinical features impacting OS included: KPS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.14, p=0.007); male sex (HR 1.44, p=0.01), pancreatic head tumors (HR 1.44, p=0.011), BED (HR 1.33, p=0.035), and age (HR 1.013, p=0.044). In the multivariate analysis, which incorporated only features significant in the univariate analyses, tumor location at the pancreatic head (HR 1.412, p=0.021) and male sex (HR 1.360, p=0.03) conferred the highest risks for poor OS, with BED bordering on significance (p=0.059) (Table). Conclusions: Among patients with stage II-III pancreatic cancer who underwent chemotherapy in sequence with SBRT, but not surgery, the most significant clinical determinants of poor OS were location of the tumor in the pancreatic head and male sex. Prioritizing additional disease monitoring and alternative therapies for this subset of patients at higher risk of poor survival may be warranted. [Table: see text]

Digital subtraction angiography-guided pancreatic arterial infusion of GEMOX chemotherapy in advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma: a phase II, open-label, randomized controlled trial comparing with intravenous chemotherapy

BackgroundAdvanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma lacks effective treatment options, and systemic gemcitabine-based chemotherapy offers only marginal survival benefits at the cost of significant toxicities and adverse events. New therapeutic options with better drug availability are warranted. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of digital subtraction angiography (DSA)-guided pancreatic arterial infusion (PAI) versus intravenous chemotherapy (IVC) using the gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GEMOX) regimen in unresectable locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer (PC) patients.Materials and methodsThis study prospectively enrolled 51 eligible treatment-naive patients with unresectable PC to receive GEMOX treatment via PAI or IVC (1:1 ratio randomization) from December 2015 to December 2019. Cycles were repeated monthly, and each process consisted of two treatments administered bi-weekly. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), 1-year survival, 6-month survival, tumor-site subgroup survival, and incidences of adverse events were compared.ResultsThe median OS of the PAI and IVC groups were 9.93 months and 10.07 months, respectively (p = 0.3049). The median PFS of the PAI and IVC groups were 5.07 months and 4.23 months (p = 0.1088). No significant differences were found in the ORR (11.54% vs. 4%, p = 0.6312), DCR (53.85% vs. 44%, p = 0.482), and 1-year OS rate (44% vs. 20.92%, p = 0.27) in PAI and IVC groups. The 6-month OS rate was significantly higher in the PAI group (100%) than in the IVC group (83.67%) (p = 0.0173). The median OS of patients in PAI group with pancreatic head and neck tumors were significantly higher than those of body and tail tumors (12.867 months vs. 9 months, p = 0.0214). The incidences of hematologic disorders, liver function disorders, and digestive disorders in the IVC group were higher than in the PAI group (p < 0.05).ConclusionGEMOX PAI therapy presented a higher 6-month OS rate and fewer adverse events than IVC in advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients. Those with pancreatic head and neck tumors may yield a superior treatment outcome from PAI treatment.Trial registration numberNCT02635971.Date of registration21/12/2015.

Preoperative neutrophil-to-C-reactive protein ratio as a predictor of post-operative complications of pancreas cancer.

We would like to investigate the prognostic utility of the previously described factors and offer a new parameter called neutrophil-to-C-reactive protein ratio (NCR) as a predictor of post-operative complications of pancreas cancer. 92 patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for the pancreatic head tumor were enrolled in this study. Receiver operating curve analysis was performed to detect the cutoff values, and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the independent risk factors of complications. In univariate analysis, complications were observed in lymphocyte-to-C-reactive protein ratio levels below 0.06 (Odds Ratio [OR]: 3.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-14.21, p = 0.037). In multivariate analysis, albumin < 3.6 (OR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.16-9.06, p = 0.024) and NCR < 0.28 (OR: 2.81, 95 % CI: 1.07-7.63, p = 0.042) were the independent and significant predictors of the overall survival. Quantification of preoperative NCR and albumin may help surgeons to settle an effective perioperative management, take extra caution, and be aware of post-operative complications of pancreatic cancer patients.

Combining single-cell spatial transcriptomics and molecular simulation to develop in vivo probes targeting the perineural invasion region of adenoid cystic carcinoma

Background and objectivesPerineural invasion (PNI) refers to the invasion, encasement, or penetration of tumor cells around or through nerves. Various malignant tumors, including pancreatic cancer, head and neck tumors, and bile duct cancer, exhibit the characteristic of PNI. Particularly, in head and neck-skull base tumors such as adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), PNI is a significant factor leading to incomplete surgical resection and postoperative recurrence. MethodsSpatial transcriptomic and single-cell transcriptomic sequencing were conducted on a case of ACC tissue with PNI to identify potential probes targeting PNI. The efficacy of the probes was validated through in vivo and in vitro experiments. ResultsSpatial transcriptomic and single-cell RNA sequencing revealed phenotypic changes in Schwann cells within the PNI region of ACC. Peptide probes were designed based on the antigen-presenting characteristics of Schwann cells in the PNI region, which are dependent on Major Histocompatibility Complex II (MHC-II) molecules. Successful validation in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed that these probes can label viable Schwann cells in the PNI region, serving as a tool for dynamic in vivo marking of tumor invasion into nerves. ConclusionsPeptide probes targeting Schwann cells' MHC-II molecules have the potential to demonstrate the occurrence of PNI in patients with ACC

Efficacy of the two-parts wrapping technique in reducing postoperative complications in laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy.

The advancement of laparoscopic technology has broadened the application of laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) for treating pancreatic head and ampullary tumors. Despite its benefits, postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH) remain significant complications. Ligamentum teres hepatis wrapping around the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) stump show limitations in reducing POPF and PPH. This study retrospectively analyzed patients undergoing LPD from January 2016 to October 2023, We compared the effectiveness of the two-parts wrapping (the ligamentum teres hepatis wrapping of the gastroduodenal artery stump and the omentum flap wrapping of the pancreatojejunal anastomosis) and ligamentum teres hepatis wrapping around the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) in reducing postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH), using propensity score matching for the analysis. A total of 172 patients were analyzed, showing that the two-parts wrapping group significantly reduced the rates of overall and severe complications, POPF, and PPH compared to ligamentum teres hepatis wrapping around the GDA group. Specifically, the study found lower rates of grade B/C POPF and no instances of PPH in the two-parts wrapping group, alongside shorter postoperative hospital stays and drainage removal times. These benefits were particularly notable in patients with soft pancreatic textures and pancreatic duct diameters of < 3mm. The two-parts wrapping technique significantly reduce the risks of POPF and PPH in LPD, offering a promising approach for patients with soft pancreas and pancreatic duct diameter of < 3mm.

Improved Pancreatic Cancer Detection and Localization on CT Scans: A Computer-Aided Detection Model Utilizing Secondary Features.

The early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is essential for optimal treatment of pancreatic cancer patients. We propose a tumor detection framework to improve the detection of pancreatic head tumors on CT scans. In this retrospective research study, CT images of 99 patients with pancreatic head cancer and 98 control cases from the Catharina Hospital Eindhoven were collected. A multi-stage 3D U-Net-based approach was used for PDAC detection including clinically significant secondary features such as pancreatic duct and common bile duct dilation. The developed algorithm was evaluated using a local test set comprising 59 CT scans. The model was externally validated in 28 pancreatic cancer cases of a publicly available medical decathlon dataset. The tumor detection framework achieved a sensitivity of 0.97 and a specificity of 1.00, with an area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) of 0.99, in detecting pancreatic head cancer in the local test set. In the external test set, we obtained similar results, with a sensitivity of 1.00. The model provided the tumor location with acceptable accuracy obtaining a DICE Similarity Coefficient (DSC) of 0.37. This study shows that a tumor detection framework utilizing CT scans and secondary signs of pancreatic cancer can detect pancreatic tumors with high accuracy.

Value of the surgical pancreatic duct anatomy and associated outcomes in pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer recurrence following surgery is a significant challenge, and personalized surgical care is crucial. Topographical variations in pancreatic duct anatomy are frequent but often underestimated. This study aimed to investigate the potential importance of these variations in outcomes and patient survival after Whipple's procedures. Data were collected from 105 patients with confirmed pancreatic head neoplasms who underwent surgery between 2008 and 2020. Radiological measurements of pancreatic duct location were performed, and statistical analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS. Inferior pancreatic duct topography was associated with an increased rate of metastatic spread and tumour recurrence. Additionally, inferior duct topography was associated with reduced overall and recurrence-free survival. Posterior pancreatic duct topography was associated with decreased incidence of perineural sheet infiltration and improved overall survival. These findings suggest that topographical diversity of pancreatic duct location can impact outcomes in Whipple's procedures. Intraoperative review of pancreatic duct location could help surgeons define areas of risk or safety and deliver a personalized surgical approach for patients with beneficial or deleterious anatomical profiles. This study provides valuable information to improve surgical management by identifying high-risk patients and delivering a personalized surgical approach with prognosis stratification.

Effect of robotic versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy on postoperative length of hospital stay and complications for pancreatic head or periampullary tumours: a multicentre, open-label randomised controlled trial

The flexibility of the robotic system in resection and reconstruction provides potential benefits in pancreaticoduodenectomy. Increasingly, robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) has been reported with favourable outcomes, but high-level evidence is still scarce. We aimed to compare the short-term postoperative outcomes of RPD with those of open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD), and hypothesised that postoperative length of hospital stay would be shorter after RPD than after OPD. This multicentre, open-label randomised controlled trial was conducted at three high-volume hospitals in China. Patients were considered for participation in this trial if they were aged 18-75 years, had a resectable benign, premalignant, or malignant tumour in the pancreatic head or periampullary region; and were suitable for both RPD and OPD. Patients with distant metastases were excluded. Block randomisation was done with random block sizes of four, stratified by centre. Allocation was concealed via individual, sequentially numbered, opaque sealed envelopes. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to the RPD group or the OPD group in a 1:1 ratio by a masked research assistant. Surgeons and patients were not masked to trial group, but data collectors, postoperative outcome assessors, and data analysts were. All patients underwent RPD or OPD according to previously reported techniques. Participating surgeons had surpassed the learning curves of at least 40 RPD and 60 OPD procedures. The primary outcome was postoperative length of hospital stay, which was analysed in the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) population. This trial is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200056809) and is complete. Between March 5 and Dec 20, 2022, 292 patients were screened for eligibility, of whom 164 were enrolled and randomly assigned to the RPD group (n=82) or the OPD group (n=82). 161 patients who underwent surgical resection were included in the mITT analysis (81 in the RPD group and 80 in the OPD group). 94 (58%) participants were male and 67 (42%) were female. Postoperative length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the RPD group than in the OPD group (median 11·0 days [IQR 9·0 to 19·5] vs 13·5 days [11·5 to 18·0]; median difference -2·0 [95% CI -4·0 to 0·0]; p=0·029). During a follow-up period of 90 days, six (7%) of 81 patients in the RPD group and five (6%) of 80 patients in the OPD group required readmission. Reasons for readmission were intra-abdominal haemorrhage (one in each group), vomiting (two in the RPD group and one in the OPD group), electrolyte disturbance (one in each group), and fever (two in each group). There were two (1%) in-hospital deaths within 90 days of surgery, one in each group. The postoperative 90-day mortality rate (difference -0·02% [-5·6 to 5·5]; p=1·00) and the incidence of severe complications (ie, Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3; difference -1·5% [-14·5 to 11·4]; p=0·82) were similar between the two groups. For surgeons who had passed the learning curve, RPD was safe and feasible with the advantage of shorter postoperative length of hospital stay than OPD. Future research should focus on the medium-term and long-term outcomes between RPD and OPD. None.

Short-term and Long-term Outcomes of Robotic Enucleation of Tumors Located in the Pancreatic Head and Uncinate Process.

To assess short-term and long-term outcomes following robotic enucleation (REn) of tumors in the proximal pancreas. Despite the advantages of preserving function via pancreatic enucleation, controversies persist, since this can be associated with severe complications, such as clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula, especially when performed near the main pancreatic duct. The safety and efficacy of REn in this context remain largely unknown. A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients who underwent REn for benign and low-grade malignant neoplasms in the pancreatic head and uncinate process between January 2005 and December 2021. Clinicopathologic, perioperative, and long-term outcomes were compared with a similar open enucleation (OEn) group. Of 146 patients, 92 underwent REn with a zero conversion-to-open rate. REn was superior to OEn in terms of shorter operative time (90.0minutes vs 120.0minutes, P<0.001), decreased blood loss (20.0mL vs 100.0min, P=0.001), and lower clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula rate (43.5% vs 61.1%, P=0.040). Bile leakage rate, major morbidity, 90-day mortality, and length of hospital stay were comparable between groups. No post-REn grade C POPF or grade IV/V complication was identified. Subgroup analyses for uncinate process tumors and proximity to the main pancreatic duct did not demonstrate inferior postoperative outcomes. In a median follow-up period of 50 months, REn outcomes were comparable to OEn regarding recurrence rate and pancreatic endocrine or exocrine function. REn for pancreatic head and uncinate process tumors improved clinically relevant outcomes without increased major complications compared to OEn, while demonstrating comparable long-term oncological and functional outcomes.

Is there any diagnostic value of serum caveolin-1 levels on the determination of pancreatic adenocarcinoma?

Caveolin-1 (CAV-1) is a vital component in cancer pathogenesis, as its expression determines the survival of patients with cancer. This study investigates CAV-1 serum levels in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PA) patients and their role in tumor progression and prognostic factors. The trial included 33 patients with pathologically confirmed pancreatic cancer (PC). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used to measure the concentrations of CAV-1 in the blood. The study also included 20 healthy subjects. The statistical analysis was two-sided, and a P value of ≤ 0.05 was determined as statistically significant. The median age of the subjects was 59 years (32-84 years) at the time of diagnosis. There were 13 (39%) female participants. In 21 (63%) patients, the primary focus was the pancreatic head. In 23 stage IV patients, hepatic metastasis (n = 19, 83%) was observed. Only one patient (3%) was still alive at the end of the study period. Palliative chemotherapy (CTx) was provided, with 39% of the 23 patients responding to it. The overall survival (OS) rate in this cohort was 41.3 ± 8.3 weeks at a 95% confidence interval (CI), after 25-58 weeks. Serum baseline CAV-1 values among patients with PA were significantly higher compared with controls (p = 0.009). Patients with poor performance status, a pancreatic head tumor, lower albumin levels, higher serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels, and higher CA 19.9 levels had significantly higher serum CAV-1 levels (p = 0.01, P = 0.05, P = 0.03, P = 0.02, and P = 0.04, respectively). However, CAV-1 did not show any prognostic value (p = 0.75). Although serum CAV-1 is a useful diagnostic marker in PC patients, it is not a prognostic or predictive marker.

Small Insulinoma Followed-up as an Indolent Pancreatic Tumor.

A woman in her 60s presented with a small pancreatic head tumor. Imaging studies revealed a 13-mm well-defined pancreatic head tumor. A neuroendocrine neoplasm was suspected, and the patient opted for observation at that time. After 8 months, the patient began experiencing sweating while fasting, and blood tests during regular follow-up visits showed hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia was induced during fasting test. The tumor exhibited clear features of an insulinoma during follow-up observation. While small neuroendocrine neoplasms are often managed through observation, caution should be exercised regarding their transformation into functional neuroendocrine tumors.

Efficacy of Endoscopic Ultrasound in Preoperative Assessment of Pancreatic Head Tumors from A Surgical Perspective: A Prospective Study

Efficacy of Endoscopic Ultrasound in Preoperative Assessment of Pancreatic Head Tumors from A Surgical Perspective: A Prospective Study

ХИМИОТЕРАПИЯ НЕОПЕРАБЕЛЬНОГО РАКА ЖЕЛЧЕВЫВОДЯЩИХ ПРОТОКОВ. ОБЗОР

Malignant tumors of the biliary ducts (BDC, biliary duct cancer) are rare cancers arising from the epithelium of the extrahepatic biliary tract, including intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas, as well as malignant tumors of the gallbladder and ampullae of the big duodenal papilla (BDP). The global and Russian incidence of these diseases is &lt;1% of all cancer cases. Despite their rarity, BDC has one of the lowest five-year survival rates, second only to pancreatic head tumors. The lack of early symptoms leads to late diagnosis, with 80% of patients presenting with unresectable BDC or advanced disease, significantly impacting life expectancy and quality of life. Unresectable cholangiocarcinoma is primarily treated with chemotherapy, including systemic, targeted, and local invasive methods. However, obstructive jaundice and hepatorenal failure limit the use of aggressive chemotherapy in most patients, hindering the implementation of effective systemic protocols. While targeted chemotherapy shows promise due to the abundance of molecular targets in bile duct malignancies, its impact on complications is limited. Local chemotherapy directly affects tumor size, invasion, and bile duct lumen, but its clinical effectiveness and impact on overall survival remain inconclusive. The search for new local and systemic approaches to cholangiocarcinoma is promising, aiming to improve overall survival and address obstructive jaundice.

Impact of pancreatic head tumor size on the outcome of surgical management

Background and objectives Tumor size has been identified as a critical prognostic factor after pancreatic adenocarcinoma resection; however, this is still up for debate. The authors aimed to investigate the relationship between size and the results of pancreatic cancer resection. Patients and methods The studied subjects were divided into two groups as follows: group A: included 69 patients with pancreatic head/uncinate process tumor ≤3 cm in size (maximum tumor diameter), subjected to elective pancreaticoduodenectomy, group B: included 87 patients with pancreatic head/uncinate process tumor &gt;3 cm in size (maximum tumor diameter), subjected to elective pancreaticoduodenectomy. From January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2021, at Menoufia University’s National Liver Institute, we looked at the clinical, radiological, histological, and survival characteristics of tiny pancreatic cancer tumors (tumors ≤3 cm) in comparison to tumors above 3 cm in size following pancreaticoduodenectomy. Calculations were made of overall cancer-specific survivals. Key factors were assessed for relevance in survival prediction using a Cox proportional hazards model. Results Among the tumors measured, 44.2% were ≤3 cm in size 55.8% tumor were greater than 3 cm in size. Larger tumors were associated with worse symptoms, higher Ca19.9, more progressive TNM stages, longer operative time, more blood transfusion, higher grade, more vascular invasion, more involved surgical margin, and more lymph node invasion. Our study compared data of 1-year survival rates of 79.1% and 50% as seen with ≤3 cm tumor size and with above 3 cm tumor size, respectively, also 2-year survival rates of 40.3% and 19.2% were seen with ≤3 cm tumor size and with above 3 cm tumor size, respectively, the result being statistically significant (P&lt;0.001). Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma size above 3 cm was associated with a worse prognosis together with histologic grading, vascular invasion, involved surgical margin, longer waiting list time, and progressive T stages. Conclusions Our findings suggest that early pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma detection can have clinical benefits, which has positive implications for future screening strategies. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma size above 3 cm is an independent predictive factor for poor prognosis after surgical resection and is associated with more aggressive tumor biology. Future trials are required to evaluate the survival benefit of neoadjuvant therapy in this subset of patients.