Perioperative blood transfusions following hepatic lobectomy: A national analysis of academic medical centers in the modern era

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the study was to characterize the prevalence and impact of perioperative blood use for patients undergoing hepatic lobectomy at academic medical centers.

METHODS

The University HealthSystem Consortium (UHC) database was queried for hepatic lobectomies performed between 2011 and 2014 (n = 6476). Patients were grouped according to transfusion requirements into high (>5 units, 7%), medium (2-5 units, 6%), low (1 unit, 8%), and none (0 units, 79%) during hospital stay for comparison of outcomes.

RESULTS

Over 20% of patients undergoing hepatic lobectomy received blood perioperatively, of which 35% required more than 5 units. Patients with high transfusion requirements had increased severity of illness (p < 0.01). High transfusion requirements correlated with increased readmission rates (23.4% vs. 19.2% vs. 16.6% vs. 13.5%), total direct costs ($31,982 vs. $20,859 vs. $19,457 vs. $16,934), length of stay (9 days vs. 8 vs. 7 vs. 6), and in-hospital mortality (10.8% vs. 2.0% vs. 0.9% vs. 2.0%) compared to medium, low, and no transfusion amounts (all p < 0.01). Neither center nor surgeon volume were associated with transfusion use.

CONCLUSION

High transfusion requirements after hepatic lobectomy in the United States are associated with worse perioperative quality measures, but may not be influenced by center or surgeon volume.

SWOG S1505: Initial findings on eligibility and neoadjuvant chemotherapy experience with mFOLFIRINOX versus gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel for resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma

4137

Background: Clinical outcomes after curative therapy of resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) remain suboptimal. For early control of systemic disease with aggressive perioperative chemotherapy (CTx), we conducted a prospective trial in the National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) setting. Methods: S1505 was a randomized phase II trial of periop (12 weeks pre-, 12 weeks post-op) CTx with either mFOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin – without bolus 5-FU and leucovorin; Arm 1), or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel (Arm 2). Eligibility required adult patients with ECOG PS 0 or 1, confirmed tissue diagnosis of PDA, and resectable disease: no involvement of the celiac, common hepatic, or superior mesenteric arteries (and, if present, variants); < 180° interface between tumor and vessel wall, of the portal or superior mesenteric veins; patent portal vein/splenic vein confluence; no metastases. Primary outcome is 2-year overall survival (OS), using a “pick the winner” design; for 100 eligible patients, accrual up to 150 patients was planned, to account for cases deemed ineligible at central radiology review. Results: From 2015 to 2018, 147 patients were enrolled; 74 to Arm 1; 73 to Arm 2. At central radiology review, 42/147 (29%) were ineligible; of these, 15 (36%) had venous involvement ≥180°, 22 (52%) had arterial involvement, 28 (67%) had distant disease. One patient had distal cholangiocarcinoma (ineligible); one withdrew consent after randomization. Eligible patients (n = 103) had median age 64 years; males 58%; whites 89%; PS 0 64%. Of 103, 99 (96%) started and 86 (83%) completed preop CTx. There was one death due to sepsis and 61 additional patients experienced grade 3/4 toxicities. To date, 76 of 99 (77%) patients went to surgery and 72 (73%) underwent resection. Conclusions: This is the first-ever NCTN study of periop CTx for resectable PDA. Accrual was brisk, establishing feasibility. Ineligible cases after central radiology review highlight quality control and physician education imperatives for neoadjuvant PDA trials. Preop CTx safety and resection rates are encouraging. Follow up for OS is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT02562716.

Cyst location and presence of high grade dysplasia or invasive cancer in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas: a seven institution study from the central pancreas consortium

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas with "high risk stigmata" (HRS) or "worrisome features" (WF) are referred for resection. We aim to assess if IPMN location is predictive of harboring either high grade dysplasia (HGD) or invasive cancer (IC).

METHODS

Patients undergoing resection for IPMN from seven institutions between 2000 and 2015 (n = 275) were analyzed. HRS and WF were defined by the 2012 Fukuoka international consensus guidelines.

RESULTS

168 (61%) patients had head/uncinate cysts, while 107 (39%) had neck/body/tail cysts. No differences were noted between groups with regard to age, duct type, cyst size, or presence of at least one WF. Patients with cysts in the head/uncinate were more often male (55% vs. 40%), had at least one HRS (24% vs. 11%), and more often harbored HGD or IC(49% vs. 27%)[all p < 0.05]. On multivariate analysis, only cyst location in the head/uncinate remained associated with presence of HGD or IC(odds ratio 4.76, p = 0.02).

DISCUSSION

Cyst location is predictive of HGD or IC in patients with IPMNs. Head/uncinated cysts are more likely to harbor malignancy compared to those of the neck/body/tail. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings, however, cyst location should be considered part of the decision making process for surveillance vs. resection for IPMNs.

SWOG S1505: Initial findings on eligibility and neoadjuvant chemotherapy experience with mfolfirinox versus gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel for resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma

414

Background: Clinical outcomes after curative therapy of resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) remain suboptimal. For early control of systemic disease with aggressive perioperative chemotherapy (CTx), we conducted a prospective trial in the National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) setting. Methods: S1505 was a randomized phase II trial of periop (12 weeks pre-, 12 weeks post-op) CTx with either mFOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin – without bolus 5-FU and leucovorin; Arm 1), or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel (Arm 2). Eligibility required adult patients with ECOG PS 0 or 1, confirmed tissue diagnosis of PDA, and resectable disease: no involvement of the celiac, common hepatic, or superior mesenteric arteries (and, if present, variants); < 180° interface between tumor and vessel wall, of the portal or superior mesenteric veins; patent portal vein/splenic vein confluence; no metastases. Primary outcome is 2-year overall survival (OS), using a “pick the winner” design; for 100 eligible patients, accrual up to 150 patients was planned, to account for cases deemed ineligible at central radiology review. Results: From 2015 to 2018, 147 patients were enrolled; 74 to Arm 1; 73 to Arm 2. At central radiology review, 42/147 (29%) were ineligible; of these, 15 (36%) had venous involvement ≥ 180°, 22 (52%) had arterial involvement, 28 (67%) had distant disease. One patient had distal cholangiocarcinoma (ineligible); one withdrew consent after randomization. Eligible patients (n = 103) had median age 64 years; males 58%; whites 89%; PS 0 64%. Of 103, 99 (96%) started and 86 (83%) completed preop CTx. There was one death due to sepsis and 61 additional patients experienced grade 3/4 toxicities. To date, 76 of 99 (77%) patients went to surgery and 72 (73%) underwent resection. Conclusions: This is the first-ever NCTN study of periop CTx for resectable PDA. Accrual was brisk, establishing feasibility. Ineligible cases after central radiology review highlight quality control and physician education imperatives for neoadjuvant PDA trials. Preop CTx safety and resection rates are encouraging. Follow up for OS is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT02562716.

Perioperative Net Fluid Balance Predicts Pancreatic Fistula After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Our goal was to evaluate the relationship between perioperative fluid administration and the development of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

Retrospectively, we analyzed fluid balance over the first 72 h in 104 consecutive patients who underwent PD between 2013 and 2017. Patients were categorized into tertiles (low, medium, and high) by net fluid balance.

RESULTS

POPF was identified in 17.3% of patients (n = 18). No significant demographic differences were identified among tertiles. Similarly, there were no differences in ASA, smoking status, hemoglobin A1C, pathologic findings, operative time, blood loss, intraoperative fluid administration, use of pancreatic stents, use of epidurals, or postoperative lactate. Patients with high 72-h net fluid balance had significantly increased rates of POPF compared with those in the medium and low tertiles (31.4% vs. 11.4% vs. 8.8%, p = 0.02). On multivariate analysis, increasing net fluid balance remained associated with CR-POPF (OR 1.26, CI 1.03-1.55, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

High net 72-h fluid balance is an independent predictor of POPF after PD. Given ongoing efforts to minimize PD morbidity, net fluid balance may represent a clinical predictor and, possibly, a modifiable target for prevention of POPF.

Status of Hearing Impairment among Handloom Workers in Tangail District of Bangladesh

Industrial noise is one of the major sources of noise pollution. Handloom industry is the biggest handicraft industry in our country; it is the second largest source of rural employment after agriculture. The workers of the handloom industry worked within excessive level of sound. This cross-sectional study was an attempt to see the status of hearing impairment among handloom worker at Tangail District, Bangladesh from August 2016 to December 2016. A total 180 handloom workers were included in this current study. All the respondents were male as handloom work is a strenuous work. The mean age of respondents was 38.18±11.529 years where most of the respondents were of middle age group (21-50) year's age group. Among the participants less than one-fourth was illiterate and rest had primary to secondary level of education. The average income of handloom workers was 13805.56±2764.696 BDT per month. Handloom workers spend average 10 hour for working per day. They were exposed to sound beyond NIOSH recommendation (70-83 dB around handloom machines and 80-90 dB around power loom machines). By self-assessment hearing impairment perception 76.7% participants reported that they had hearing problem. Based on the interpretation of Rinne, Webers and ABC test data indicate that among the respondents around 32.2% were identified with bilateral sensorineural hearing impairment and of them through Pure tone audiometry (PTA) around half were diagnosed as suffering from moderate to severe Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). Using personal protective measure like ear muffle/ear musk has been recommended.

Programmatic change leads to enhanced resource utilization and efficiency in port placement

BACKGROUND

Central venous port (CVP) placement is performed by a variety of surgeons in different subspecialties, and our previous work suggests that individual surgeons-regardless of training-are the strongest predictor of outcomes. We sought to prospectively evaluate a programmatic shift toward a resource-conscious, patient-focused algorithm for this common and simple surgical procedure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After implementation of a systems-level program for efficient CVP placement, 78 CVPs were placed by a single surgeon. Primary outcomes were procedure time, total operating room (OR) time, total facility time, and procedure-related complications. These prospective data were compared with retrospective cohorts of surgically placed and interventional radiology-placed CVP. Demographic data were analyzed by chi-square analysis, whereas time data were analyzed by the Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

RESULTS

The programmatic delivery (prospective) set showed significantly shorter procedural (median 16 min versus 26-40, P <0.05), OR times (median 36 min versus 46-70, P <0.05), and facility times (median 235 min versus 299-319, P <0.05) except for the interventional radiology facility time (median 187 versus 235, P <0.05). The range of OR time savings with the prospective versus comparison groups was 10-34 min, representing 22%-49% reductions in OR time (P <0.05). Complication rates were not significantly different (P = 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

Through a programmatic change emphasizing efficiency and patient-centered outcomes, procedural/OR/facility time can be reduced greatly without changing complication rates. These data provide compelling evidence that common and ostensibly simple operative procedures can be substantially improved upon with thoughtful, data-driven systems-level enhancements.

SWOG S1505: A randomized phase II study of perioperative mFOLFIRINOX versus gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel as therapy for resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma

TPS547

Background: Clinical outcomes after curative therapy for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) remain suboptimal. Series show that 70-85% of patients die of systemic recurrence. Improved overall survival (OS) in the metastatic setting with the use of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens (FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel) holds the promise of progress in the curative setting as well. However, aggressive systemic therapy is usually not feasible after major pancreatic surgery. Therefore, early control of systemic disease by increased preoperative chemotherapy may improve outcomes. Furthermore, the perioperative platform facilitates early identification of patients with chemotherapy-resistant tumors and allows prospective biomarker studies in the future. Methods: This is a randomized phase II study intended to choose the most promising perioperative regimen to test in a larger trial. Eligibility requirements include adult patients with an ECOG PS of 0 or 1, a confirmed histopathologic diagnosis of PDA, and resectable disease as confirmed by central radiology review: no involvement of the celiac, common hepatic, or superior mesenteric arteries (and, if present, variants); no involvement, or < 180° interface between tumor and vessel wall, of the portal or superior mesenteric veins; patent portal vein/splenic vein confluence; no metastases. Treatment includes 12 weeks [either 6 doses of mFOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin – without bolus 5-FU and leucovorin), or 9 doses of gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel, on standard schedules] of preoperative chemotherapy, followed by surgical resection and 12 weeks of identical postoperative chemotherapy. Primary outcome is 2-year OS, using a “pick the winner” design with minimum two-year OS of 40% assuming a 58% alternative hypothesis, 88% power, and a 1-sided α of 0.05, providing 90% probability of selecting the better regimen with a total sample size of 150 patients. Correlative studies are planned. The study opened through the National Clinical Trials Network (NCT02562716), and is supported by NIH/NCI/NCTN grants CA180888, CA180819, CA180821, CA180833. Clinical trial information: NCT02562716.

Patterns of failure in a phase II trial of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for resectable and borderline resectable (BLR) pancreatic cancer

482

Background: There is emerging interest in the role of SBRT in locally advanced pancreas cancer, however little prospective data exists examining the safety, efficacy, and optimal target volumes for SBRT in the neoadjuvant setting for resectable or BLR pancreatic cancer. Methods: Eighteen patients were enrolled from 11/2014-6/2017. SBRT was delivered to the tumor and abutting vessel with fiducials/compression and a 3 mm PTV margin to 33 Gy (6.6 Gyx5fxn) with an optional elective PTV to 25 Gy (5 Gyx5fxn) customized to the nodal space and mesenteric vessels. Patients without progression underwent surgery 4-6 weeks following SBRT. The primary endpoint is ≥ Grade 3 acute and late GI toxicity. Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS),and cumulative incidence of local failure (LF). LF is defined as recurrence within conventional RT volumes from the time of resection to local failure or last CT with no progression. Local failures were fused to planning CTs for dose quantification. Results: Thirteen patients had BLR tumors due to arterial abutment (n = 7) or SMV encasement (n = 8); 3 patients had resectable tumors. All patients received 4 months of gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel (n = 13) or FOLFIRNOX (n = 5) prior to SBRT. There were no ≥ Grade 3 acute or late GI events. Metastases were noted in 6 patients (33%) at restaging or surgery. Surgery was performed in 12 patients (67%) with 11 (92%) R0 resections. Median OS and PFS are 21 months and 11 months, respectively. Progression occurred in 67% (8/12) of resected patients with first site of failure as distant (n = 3, 38%), local only (n = 4, 50%), and local and distant (n = 1,13%). The cumulative incidence of LF at 12 months from resection was 50%. All LF were outside to the PTV33 with median D90 of 11.5 Gy (4-25 Gy), V25 Gy of 51% (0-90%), and V33 Gy of 45% (0-52%). Conclusions: SBRT as a component of neoadjuvant therapy was well tolerated. However, local failures were predominantly observed outside the PTV33 volume within conventional RT volumes. Therefore, the durability of local control after SBRT in the neoadjuvant setting relative to chemoradiation merits close examination. Clinical trial information: NCT02208024.

Antibody-based targeting of alternatively spliced tissue factor: a new approach to impede the primary growth and spread of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Alternatively spliced Tissue Factor (asTF) is a secreted form of Tissue Factor (TF), the trigger of blood coagulation whose expression levels are heightened in several forms of solid cancer, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). asTF binds to β1 integrins on PDAC cells, whereby it promotes tumor growth, metastatic spread, and monocyte recruitment to the stroma. In this study, we determined if targeting asTF in PDAC would significantly impact tumor progression. We here report that a novel inhibitory anti-asTF monoclonal antibody curtails experimental PDAC progression. Moreover, we show that tumor-derived asTF is able to promote PDAC primary growth and spread during early as well as later stages of the disease. This raises the likelihood that asTF may comprise a viable target in early- and late-stage PDAC. In addition, we show that TF expressed by host cells plays a significant role in PDAC spread. Together, our data demonstrate that targeting asTF in PDAC is a novel strategy to stem PDAC progression and spread.

Tube Feed Necrosis after Major Gastrointestinal Oncologic Surgery: Institutional Lessons and a Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Small bowel necrosis after enteral feeding through a jejunostomy tube (tube feed necrosis, TFN) is a rare, serious complication of major abdominal surgery. However, strategies to reduce the incidence and morbidity of TFN are not well established. Here, in the largest series of TFN presented to date, we report our institutional experience and a comprehensive review of the literature.

METHODS

Eight patients who experienced TFN from 2000 to 2014 after major abdominal surgery for oncologic indications at the University of Cincinnati were reviewed. Characteristics of post-operative courses and outcomes were reviewed prior to and after a change in tube-feeding protocol. The existing literature addressing TFN over the last three decades was also reviewed.

RESULTS

Patients with TFN ranged from 50 to 74 years old and presented with upper gastrointestinal tract malignancies amenable to surgical resection. Six and two cases of TFN occurred following pancreatectomy and esophagectomy, respectively. Prior to TF protocol changes, which included initiation at a low rate, titrating up more slowly and starting at one-half strength TF, three of six cases of TFN (50%) resulted in mortality. With the new TF protocol, there were no deaths, goal TF rate was achieved 3 days later, symptoms of TFN were recognized 3 days earlier, and re-operation was conducted 1 day earlier.

CONCLUSION

This case series describes a change in clinical practice that is associated with decreased morbidity and mortality of TFN. Wider implementation and further refinement of this tube-feeding protocol may reduce TFN incidence at other institutions and in patients with other conditions requiring enteral nutrition.

The Surgeon's Role in Treating Chronic Pancreatitis and Incidentally Discovered Pancreatic Lesions

Chronic pancreatitis and incidentally discovered pancreatic lesions present significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for surgeons. While both decompressive and resection procedures have been described for treatment of chronic pancreatitis, optimal management must be tailored to each patient's individual disease characteristics, parenchymal morphology, and ductal anatomy. Surgeons should strive to achieve long-lasting pain relief while preserving native pancreatic function. For patients with incidentally discovered pancreatic lesions, differentiating benign, pre-malignant, and malignant lesions is critical as earlier treatment is thought to result in improved survival. The purpose of this evidence-based manuscript is to review the presentation, workup, surgical management, and associated outcomes for patients with chronic pancreatitis or incidentally discovered solid and cystic lesions of the pancreas.

Inter-individual responses to sprint interval training, a pilot study investigating interactions with the sirtuin system

Sprint interval training (SIT) is reported to improve blood glucose control and may be a useful public health tool. The sirtuins and associated genes are emerging as key players in blood glucose control. This study investigated the interplay between the sirtuin/NAD system and individual variation in insulin sensitivity responses after SIT in young healthy individuals. Before and after 4 weeks of SIT, body mass and fat percentage were measured and oral glucose tolerance tests performed in 20 young healthy participants (7 females). Blood gene expression profiles (all 7 mammalian sirtuin genes and 15 enzymes involved in conversion of tryptophan, bioavailable vitamin B3, and metabolic precursors to NAD). NAD/NADP was measured in whole blood. Significant reductions in body weight and body fat post-SIT were associated with altered lipid profiles, NAD/NADP, and regulation of components of the sirtuin/NAD system (NAMPT, NMNAT1, CD38, and ABCA1). Variable improvements in measured metabolic health parameters were evident and attributed to different responses in males and females, together with marked inter-individual variation in responses of the sirtuin/NAD system to SIT.

Alliance for clinical trials in oncology (ALLIANCE) trial A021501: preoperative extended chemotherapy vs. chemotherapy plus hypofractionated radiation therapy for borderline resectable adenocarcinoma of the head of the pancreas

BACKGROUND

Borderline resectable pancreatic cancers infiltrate into adjacent vascular structures to an extent that makes an R0 resection unlikely when pancreatectomy is performed de novo. In a pilot study, Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology Trial A021101, the median survival of patients who received chemotherapy and radiation prior to anticipated pancreatectomy was 22 months, and 64% of operations achieved an R0 resection. However, the individual contributions of preoperative chemotherapy and radiation therapy to therapeutic outcome remain poorly defined.

METHODS

In Alliance for Clinical Oncology Trial A021501, a recently activated randomized phase II trial, patients (N = 134) with a CT or MRI showing a biopsy-confirmed pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma that meets centrally-reviewed anatomic criteria for borderline resectable disease will be randomized to receive either 8 cycles of modified FOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, irinotecan 180 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2 and infusional 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2 over 2 days for 4 cycles) or to 7 cycles of modified FOLFIRINOX followed by stereotactic body radiation therapy (33-40 Gy in 5 fractions). Patients without evidence of disease progression following preoperative therapy will undergo pancreatectomy and will subsequently receive 4 cycles of postoperative modified FOLFOX6 (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2, bolus 5-fluorouracil 400 mg/m2, and infusional 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2 over 2 days for 4 cycles). The primary endpoint is the 18-month overall survival rate of patients enrolled into each of the two treatment arms. An interim analysis of the R0 resection rate within each arm will be conducted to assess treatment futility after accrual of 30 patients. Secondary endpoints include rates of margin-negative resection and event-free survival. The primary analysis will compare the 18-month overall survival rate of each arm to a historical control rate of 50%. The trial is activated nationwide and eligible to be opened for accrual at any National Clinical Trials Network cooperative group member site.

DISCUSSION

This study will help define standard preoperative treatment regimens for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer and position the superior arm for further evaluation in future phase III trials.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT02839343 , registered July 14, 2016.

Improvement and persistent disparities in completion lymph node dissection: Lessons from the National Cancer Database

BACKGROUND

Completion lymph node dissection (CLND) is recommended for melanoma patients with positive sentinel lymph node biopsies (SLNB); however, 50% do not undergo CLND. We sought to determine CLND trends over time, and factors contributing to variability.

METHODS

The NCDB was queried for patients undergoing wide local excision (WLE), with or without SLNB and CLND. Cohorts were created based on demographic/socioeconomic variables and era of treatment (Era 1: 2003-07, Era 2: 2008-12). Univariate and multivariate analyses identified factors associated with performance of or trends in CLND.

RESULTS

122 849 underwent WLE with SLNB. Of 24 267 (19.8%) with +SLNB, 13 594 (56.0%) continued to CLND. In multivariate analyses, Medicaid (OR 0.78; P = 0.04) or Medicare (OR 0.79; P < 0.01) in Era 1 and patients without insurance in Era 2 (OR 0.78; P = 0.01) underwent less CLND. In both eras, Blacks (OR 0.45; P < 0.01, OR 0.59; P < 0.01), head/neck lesions (OR 0.72; P < 0.01, OR 0.66; P < 0.01) and lower extremity lesions (OR 0.75; P < 0.01, OR 0.72; P < 0.01) underwent less CLND. However, Blacks experienced greatest increase in CLND usage (+9.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

CLND usage continues to be low and racial/socioeconomic disparities persist. Until the results of MSLT-2 become available, continued focus on understanding poor adherence to, and improving rates of CLND is necessary.

Fistulojejunostomy Versus Distal Pancreatectomy for the Management of the Disconnected Pancreas Remnant Following Necrotizing Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

A disconnected distal pancreas (DDP) remnant is a morbid sequela of necrotizing pancreatitis. Definitive surgical management can be accomplished by either fistulojejunostomy (FJ) or distal pancreatectomy (DP). It is unclear which operative approach is superior with regard to short- and long-term outcomes.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2014, patients undergoing either FJ or DP for DDP were retrospectively identified at a center specializing in pancreatic diseases. Patient demographics, perioperative, and postoperative variables were evaluated.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients with DDP secondary to necrotizing pancreatitis underwent either a FJ (n = 21) or DP (n = 21). Between the two cohorts, there were no significant differences in overall lengths of stay, pancreatic leak rates, or readmission rates (all p > 0.05). DP was associated with higher estimated blood loss, increased transfusion requirements, and worsening endocrine function (all p < 0.05). At a median follow-up of 18 months, four patients that underwent a FJ developed a recurrent fluid collection requiring re-intervention. Overall, FJ was successful in 80% of patients as compared to a 95% success rate for DP (p = 0.15).

CONCLUSIONS

Although DP was associated with higher intraoperative blood loss, increased transfusion requirements, and worsening of preoperative diabetes, this procedure provides superior long-term resolution of a DDP when compared to FJ.

Time to Initiation of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Pancreas Cancer: A Multi-Institutional Experience

BACKGROUND

Despite randomized trials addressing adjuvant therapy (AT) for pancreas cancer, the ideal time to initiate therapy remains undefined. Retrospective analyses of the ESPAC-3 trial demonstrated that time to initiation of AT did not impact overall survival (OS). Given the absence of confirmatory data outside of a clinical trial, we sought to determine if AT timing in routine clinical practice is associated with OS differences.

METHODS

Perioperative data of pancreatectomies for ductal adenocarcinoma from five institutions (2005-2015) were assessed. Delay in AT was defined as initiation >12 weeks after surgery. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors of mortality.

RESULTS

Of 867 patients, 172 (19.8%) experienced omission of AT. Improved OS was observed in patients who received AT compared with patients who did not (24.8 vs. 19.1 months, p < 0.01). Information on time to initiation of AT was available in 488 patients, of whom 407 (83.4%) and 81 (16.6%) received chemotherapy ≤12 and >12 weeks after surgery, respectively. There were no differences in recurrence-free survival or OS (all p > 0.05) between the timely and delayed AT groups. After controlling for perioperative characteristics and tumor pathology, patients who initiated AT ≤ 12 or > 12 weeks after surgery had a 50% lower odds of mortality than patients who only underwent resection (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In a multi-institutional experience of resected pancreas cancer, delayed initiation of AT was not associated with poorer survival. Patients who do not receive AT within 12 weeks after surgery are still appropriate candidates for multimodal therapy and its associated survival benefit.

The diagnosis of pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasm and associated adenocarcinoma in males: An eight-institution study of 349 patients over 15 years

BACKGROUND

Per WHO, 2000 classification, pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN) are defined by presence of ovarian stroma, and are primarily located in the pancreatic body/tail of females. The incidence of MCN and associated malignancy in males, since, standardization of MCN diagnostic-criteria is unknown.

METHODS

MCN resections from 2000 to 2014 at eight institutions of the Central-Pancreas-Consortium were included, and divided into early (2000-2007) and late (2008-2014) time-periods. Primary aim was to characterize MCN and associated adenocarcinoma/high-grade-dysplasia (AC/HGD) in males versus females over time.

RESULTS

Of 1667 resections for pancreatic cystic lesions, 349 pts (21%) had MCNs: 310 (89%) female, 39 (11%) male. Patients were equally divided between early (n = 173) and late (n = 176) time-periods. MCN in male-patients decreased over time (early: 15%, late: 7%; P = 0.036), as did pancreatic head/neck location (early: 22%, late: 11%; P = 0.01). MCN-associated AC/HGD was more frequent in males versus females (39 vs. 12%; P < 0.001). The overall rate of MCN-associated AC/HGD remained stable (early: 17%, late: 13%; P = 0.4), and was identical in males (39%) over both time-periods. Males with AC/HGD had more LN-positive disease versus females (57 vs. 22%; P = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

As the diagnostic-criteria of MCN have standardized over time, MCN diagnosis has decreased in males and head/neck location. Despite this, MCN-associated adenocarcinoma/high-grade dysplasia has been stable and remains high in males. Any male with suspected MCN, regardless of location, should undergo resection.

SWOG S1505: A randomized phase II study of perioperative mFOLFIRINOX vs. gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel as therapy for resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma

TPS4152

Background: Clinical outcomes after curative therapy for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) remain suboptimal. Series show that 70-85% of patients die of systemic recurrence. Improved overall survival (OS) in the metastatic setting with the use of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens (FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel) holds the promise of progress in the curative setting as well. However, aggressive systemic therapy is usually not feasible after major pancreatic surgery. Therefore, early control of systemic disease by increased preoperative chemotherapy may improve outcomes. Furthermore, the perioperative platform facilitates early identification of patients with chemotherapy-resistant tumors and allows prospective biomarker studies in the future. Methods: This is a randomized phase II study intended to choose the most promising perioperative regimen to test in a larger trial. Eligibility requirements include adult patients with an ECOG PS of 0 or 1, a confirmed histopathologic diagnosis of PDA, and resectable disease as confirmed by central radiology review: no involvement of the celiac, common hepatic, or superior mesenteric arteries (and, if present, variants); no involvement, or < 180° interface between tumor and vessel wall, of the portal or superior mesenteric veins; patent portal vein/splenic vein confluence; no metastases. Treatment includes 12 weeks [either 6 doses of mFOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin – without bolus 5-FU and leucovorin), or 9 doses of gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel, on standard schedules] of preoperative chemotherapy, followed by surgical resection and 12 weeks of identical postoperative chemotherapy. Primary outcome is 2-year OS, using a “pick the winner” design with minimum two-year OS of 40% assuming a 58% alternative hypothesis, 88% power, and a 1-sided α of 0.05, providing 90% probability of selecting the better regimen with a total sample size of 118 patients. Correlative studies are planned. The study opened through the National Clinical Trials Network (NCT02562716), and is supported by NIH/NCI/NCTN grants CA180888, CA180819, CA180821, CA180833. Clinical trial information: NCT02562716.

Alliance for clinical trials in oncology trial A021501: Preoperative extended chemotherapy vs. chemotherapy plus hypofractionated radiation therapy for borderline resectable adenocarcinoma of the head of the pancreas

TPS4151

Background: Borderline resectable pancreatic cancers infiltrate into adjacent vascular structures to an extent that makes an R0 resection unlikely when pancreatectomy is performed de novo. In a pilot study, Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology Trial A021101, the median survival of patients who received chemotherapy and radiation prior to anticipated pancreatectomy was 22 months, and an R0 resection was achieved in 64% of operations. However, the individual contributions of preoperative chemotherapy and radiation therapy are poorly defined.This study, Alliance for Clinical Oncology Trial A021501, will help define a standard preoperative treatment regimen for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer and position the superior arm for further evaluation in future phase III trials. Methods: In this recently activated randomized phase II trial, 134 patients with a biopsy-confirmed pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma that meets centrally-reviewed radiographic criteria for borderline resectable disease are randomized to receive either 8 cycles of modified FOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, irinotecan 180 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2 and infusional 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2 for 4 cycles) or to 7 cycles of modified FOLFIRINOX followed by stereotactic body radiation therapy (33-40 Gy in 5 fractions). Patients without evidence of disease progression following preoperative therapy undergo pancreatectomy and subsequently receive 4 cycles of postoperative modified FOLFOX6 (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2 and infusional 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2 for 4 cycles). The primary endpoint is the 18-month overall survival rate of patients enrolled into each of the two treatment arms. An interim analysis of the R0 resection rate within each arm will be conducted to assess treatment futility after accrual of 30 patients. Secondary endpoints include rates of margin-negative resection and event-free survival. The trial is activated nationwide and eligible to be opened for accrual at any National Clinical Trials Network cooperative group member site. Clinical trial information: NCT02839343.

SWOG S1505: A randomized phase II study of perioperative mFOLFIRINOX vs. gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel as therapy for resectable pancreatic adenocarcinom

TPS508

Background: Clinical outcomes after curative therapy for resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) remain suboptimal. Series show that 70-85% of patients die of systemic recurrence. Improved overall survival (OS) in the metastatic setting with the use of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens (FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel) holds the promise of progress in the curative setting as well. However, aggressive systemic therapy is usually not feasible after major pancreatic surgery. Therefore, early control of systemic disease by increased preoperative chemotherapy may improve outcomes. Furthermore, the perioperative platform facilitates early identification of patients with chemotherapy-resistant tumors and allows prospective biomarker studies in the future. Methods: This is a randomized phase II study intended to choose the most promising perioperative regimen to test in a larger trial. Eligibility requirements include patients with an ECOG PS of 0 or 1, a confirmed histopathologic diagnosis of PDA, and resectable disease as confirmed by central radiology review: no involvement of the celiac, common hepatic, or superior mesenteric arteries (and, if present, variants); no involvement, or < 180° interface between tumor and vessel wall, of the portal or superior mesenteric veins; patent portal vein/splenic vein confluence; no metastases. Treatment includes 12 weeks [either mFOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil infusion (no bolus), irinotecan, oxaliplatin), or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel] of preoperative chemotherapy, followed by surgical resection and 12 weeks of identical postoperative chemotherapy. Primary outcome is 2-year OS, using a “pick the winner” design with minimum activity requirements. Assuming a historical 2-year OS of 40% and a 58% alternative hypothesis, 88% power, a 1-sided α of 0.05, and 100 eligible patients, the design provides a 90% probability of selecting the better regimen. The study opened through the National Clinical Trials Network (NCT02562716), and is supported by NIH/NCI/NCTN grants CA180888, CA180819, CA180821, CA180833. Clinical trial information: NCT02562716.