Cancer risk after splenectomy

Long-term outcomes after spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessels preservation or resection: A nationwide survey of the Japanese Society of Pancreatic Surgery

BACKGROUND

Spleen preserving distal pancreatectomy is achieved by either splenic vessel resection or splenic vessel preservation. However, the long-term outcomes of spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel resection and spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel preservation are not well known. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel resection and spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel preservation.

METHODS

The study included a total of 335 patients who underwent spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy during the study period and underwent computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging 3 and 5 years after surgery in the Japan Society of Pancreatic Surgery member institutions. We evaluated the diameter of the perigastric and gastric submucosal veins, patency of the splenic vessels, and splenic infarction. Preoperative backgrounds and short- and long-term outcomes were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Forty-four (13.1%) and 291 (86.9%) patients underwent spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel resection and spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel preservation, respectively. There were no significant differences in short-term outcomes between the 2 groups. Regarding long-term outcomes, the prevalence of perigastric varices was higher (P = .006), and platelet count was lower (P = .037) in the spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel resection group. However, other complications, such as gastric submucosal varices, postoperative splenic infarction, gastrointestinal bleeding, reoperation, postoperative splenectomy, and other hematologic parameters, were not significantly different between the 2 groups 5 years after surgery. In terms of the patency of splenic vessels in spleen preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel preservation cases, partial or complete occlusion of the splenic artery and vein was observed 5 years after surgery in 19 (6.5%) and 55 (18.9%) patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Perigastric varices and thrombocytopenia were observed more in spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel resection, yet late clinical events such as gastrointestinal bleeding and splenic infarction are acceptable for spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy with splenic vessel preservation.

Splenectomy has opposite effects on the growth of primary compared with metastatic tumors in a murine colon cancer model

The spleen is a key source of circulating and tumor-infiltrating immune cells. However, the effect of splenectomy on tumor growth remains unclear. At 3 weeks after splenectomy, we subcutaneously injected LuM1 cells into BALB/c mice and evaluated the growth of primary tumors and lung metastases at 4 weeks after tumor inoculation. In addition, we examined the phenotypes of immune cells in peripheral blood by using flow cytometry and in tumor tissue by using multiplex immunohistochemistry. The growth of primary tumors was reduced in splenectomized mice compared with the sham-operated group. Conversely, splenectomized mice had more lung metastases. Splenectomized mice had fewer CD11b+cells, especially monocytic MDSCs (CD11b+Gr-1neg-lowLy6chigh), and NK cells (CD49b+CD335+). The proportion of NK cells was inversely correlated with the number of lung metastases. In splenectomized mice, the density of CD3+ and granzyme B+ CD8+ T cells was increased, with fewer M2-type macrophages in primary tumors, but NK cells were decreased markedly in lung. Splenectomy concurrently enhances T cell-mediated acquired immunity by reducing the number of monocytic MDSCs and suppresses innate immunity by decreasing the number of NK cells. Splenectomy has opposite effects on primary and metastatic lesions through differential regulation on these two immune systems.

Autogenic splenic implantation versus splenectomy in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy for benign or low-grade malignant lesions of the distal pancreas: study protocol for a multicentre, open-label, randomized controlled trial (RESTORE)

BACKGROUND

The spleen plays a significant role in the clearance of circulating microorganisms. Sequelae of splenectomy, especially immunodeficiency, can have a deleterious effect on a patient's health and even lead to death. Hence, splenectomy should be avoided and spleen preservation during elective surgery has become a treatment goal. However, this cannot be achieved in every patient due to intraoperative technical difficulties or oncological reasons. Autogenic splenic implantation (ASI) is currently the only possible way to preserve splenic function when a splenectomy is necessary. Experience largely stems from trauma patients with a splenic rupture. Splenic immune function can be measured by the body's clearing capacity of encapsulated bacteria. The aim of this study is to assess the splenic immune function after ASI was performed during minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy.

METHODS

This is the protocol for a multicentre, randomized, open-labelled trial. Thirty participants with benign or low-grade malignant lesions of the distal pancreas requiring minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy will be allocated to either additional intraoperative ASI (intervention) or no further intervention (control). An additional 15 patients who will undergo spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy serve as the control group with normal splenic function. Six months postoperatively, after assumed restoration of splenic function, patients will be given a Salmonella typhi (Typhim Vi™) vaccine. The Salmonella typhi vaccine is a polysaccharide vaccine. The specific antibody titres immediately before and 4 to 6 weeks after vaccination will be measured. The ratio between pre- and post-vaccination antibody count is the primary outcome measure and secondary outcome measures include intraoperative details, length of hospital stay, 30-day mortality and morbidity.

DISCUSSION

This study will investigate the splenic immune function of patients who undergo ASI during minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy. The splenic immune function will be measured using the surrogate outcome of specific antibody titre after vaccination with a Salmonella typhi vaccine. The results will reveal details about splenic function after ASI and guide further treatment options for patients when a splenectomy cannot be avoided. It might eventually lead to a new standard of care making sometimes more demanding and time-consuming spleen-preserving procedures redundant.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trials Number (ISRCTN) ISRCTN10171587. Prospectively registered on 18 February 2019.

Robotic-assisted organ-preserving or parenchymal-sparing pancreatectomy in pancreatic benign or low-grade malignant tumors: a single institute's experience

AIM

Robotic-assisted pancreatectomy has been widely used. Organ-preserving pancreatectomy (OPP) and parenchymal-sparing pancreatectomy (PSP) has been gradually adopted for pancreatic benign or low-grade malignant tumors. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of robotic-assisted OPP/PSP in our institute.

METHODS

Patients undergoing robotic-assisted OPS/PSP at First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between July 2015 and October 2021 were included in this study. The short-term and long-term outcomes of patients were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients were enrolled, including spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy, central pancreatectomy, duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection, and enucleation. Patients included were more likely to be young female (female: 46/72, median age: 47 years old). The median intraoperative blood loss and operation time was 50 ml and 255 min, respectively. Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula was 20.8% (grade B: 15/72, 20.8%; no grade C). The overall complication rate was 22.2% with the median postoperative length-of-stay of 8 days. At a median follow-up time of 28.5 months, the 5-year overall survival and recurrence-free survival rate were 100.0% and 100.0%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The short-term and long-term outcomes of patients receiving robotic-assisted OPP/PSP were acceptable. Robotic-assisted OPP/PSP was a feasible and safe technique for pancreatic benign or low-grade malignant lesions.

Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy: A novel technique with splenic artery resection and splenic vein preservation

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSDP) is widely performed to treat benign and low-grade malignant diseases. Although preservation of splenic vessels may be desirable considering the risk of postoperative complications, it is sometimes difficult due to tumor size, inflammation, and proximity of the tumor and splenic vessels. Herein, we present the first case of LSDP with splenic artery resection and splenic vein preservation.

MATERIALS AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

A 40-year-old woman with a pancreatic tumor was referred to our hospital. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a tumor in the pancreatic tail that was in contact with the splenic artery and distant from the splenic vein. The splenic artery and vein were separated from the pancreas near the dissection line. The splenic artery was resected after pancreatic dissection using a linear stapler. After the pancreatic tail was separated from the splenic hilum while preserving the splenic vein, the distal side of the splenic artery was resected, and the specimen was removed. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged on postoperative Day 9. Four months after surgery, postoperative follow-up CT findings showed neither splenic infarction nor gastric varices.

DISCUSSION

This technique is an alternative method of splenic preservation when there is no attachment of the tumor to the splenic vein or uncontrolled expected bleeding of the splenic artery using the Kimura technique.

Comparison of Spleen-Preservation Versus Splenectomy in Minimally Invasive Distal Pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Spleen-preservation during minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP) can be technically challenging and remains controversial. Our primary aim was to compare MIDP and splenectomy with spleen-preserving MIDP. Secondarily, we compared two spleen-preserving techniques.

METHODS

Adults undergoing MIDP (2007-2021) were retrospectively included in this single-center study. Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes between spleen-preservation and splenectomy and between the two spleen-preserving techniques were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous data, and Fisher's exact test for categorical data.

RESULTS

Of the 293 patients who underwent MIDP, preservation of the spleen was intended in 208 (71%) patients. Spleen-preservation was achieved in 174 patients (84%) via the Warshaw technique (130; 75%) or vessel-preservation (44; 25%). The spleen-preserving group had shorter length of stay (3 vs 4 days, p < 0.01), fewer conversions to open (1 vs 12, p < 0.01) and less blood loss (p < 0.01) compared to the splenectomy group. Operative (OR) times were comparable (229 vs 214 min, p = 0.67). Except for the operative time, which was longer for the Warshaw technique (245 vs 183 min, p = 0.01), no other differences between the two spleen-preserving techniques were found. At a median follow-up of 43 (IQR 18-79) months after spleen-preservation, only 2 (1.1%) patients had required splenectomy (1 partial splenectomy for infarct/abscess after Warshaw, 1 for variceal bleeding after vessel-preserving).

CONCLUSIONS

Spleen-preservation is not associated with increased risk of blood loss, longer hospital stay, conversion, nor lengthy OR times. Late splenectomy is very rarely required. Given the immune consequences of splenectomy, spleen-preservation should be strongly considered in MIDP.

Spleen regeneration after subcutaneous heterotopic autotransplantation in a mouse model

BACKGROUND

Splenectomy may lead to severe postoperative complications, including sepsis and cancers. A possible solution to this problem is heterotopic autotransplantation of the spleen. Splenic autografts rapidly restore the regular splenic microanatomy in model animals. However, the functional competence of such regenerated autografts in terms of lympho- and hematopoietic capacity remains uncertain. Therefore, this study aimed to monitor the dynamics of B and T lymphocyte populations, the monocyte-macrophage system, and megakaryocytopoiesis in murine splenic autografts.

METHODS

The model of subcutaneous splenic engraftment was implemented in C57Bl male mice. Cell sources of functional recovery were studied using heterotopic transplantations from B10-GFP donors to C57Bl recipients. The cellular composition dynamics were studied by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Expression of regulatory genes at mRNA and protein levels was assessed by real-time PCR and Western blot, respectively.

RESULTS

Characteristic splenic architecture is restored within 30 days post-transplantation, consistent with other studies. The monocyte-macrophage system, megakaryocytes, and B lymphocytes show the highest rates, whereas the functional recovery of T cells takes longer. Cross-strain splenic engraftments using B10-GFP donors indicate the recipient-derived cell sources of the recovery. Transplantations of scaffolds populated with splenic stromal cells or without them afforded no restoration of the characteristic splenic architecture.

CONCLUSIONS

Allogeneic subcutaneous transplantation of splenic fragments in a mouse model leads to their structural recovery within 30 days, with full reconstitution of the monocyte-macrophage, megakaryocyte and B lymphocyte populations. The circulating hematopoietic cells provide the likely source for the cell composition recovery.

Comparing the Warshaw technique with vessel-preservation in laparoscopic spleen preserving distal pancreatectomy: is there a better approach?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) can be accomplished with either resection of the splenic vessels via the Warshaw Technique (WT) or via preservation of the splenic vessels (SVP). Our study aims to compare outcomes for the two methods of LSPDP.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review with intent-to-treat analysis of adults undergoing LSPDP at a single institution from 2009 to 2021. We compared demographic characteristics, operative parameters, oncologic pathology review, and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 102 consecutive cases of LSPDP (59 WT, 43 SVP) over 12 years. The rate of successful spleen preservation was not significantly different between the two groups (76.3%WT, 65.1%VSP,p = 0.27). Rates of conversion to laparotomy, postoperative complications including pancreatic fistulas and splenic infarcts and amount of intraoperative blood loss were similar between the groups. Median operative time was significantly shorter with the WT (141 vs. 177 min, p < 0.05). The median length of stay in hospital was not significantly different among the groups.

CONCLUSION

Both techniques are safe and effective in preserving the spleen in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. Our experience suggests that the Warshaw Technique may be more efficient with respect to the use of limited operative resources.

Comparison of splenic vessel preserving distal pancreatectomy and the Warshaw technique for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm in children

PURPOSE

Spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) such as splenic vessel preservation (SVP) for solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) in the body or tail of the pancreas in children prevents post-splenectomy infection and hematologic disorders. However, SVP could be technically challenging, and the Warshaw technique (WT) could be an alternative technique that has been reported to be safe and effective in adults. We, therefore, compared the perioperative outcomes of SVP and WT in pediatric patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of pediatric patients with SPN who underwent SPDP using SVP or WT between November 2002 and November 2018 at a large-sized tertiary referral center.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients were included. Sixteen (57.1%) patients underwent SVP and 12 (42.9%) patients underwent WT. There were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics between the two groups. Postoperative complications occurred in 8 patients each in the SVP (50%), and the WT (66.7%) groups. Two (12.5%) in the SVP group and 1 (8.3%) in the WT group required additional intervention. During a median follow-up duration of 49 months, there were no significant differences in the incidence of splenic infarctions or perigastric varices between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no significant differences in the surgical outcomes between WT and SVP in pediatric patients with SPN. WT could be a safe and feasible alternative technique for SVP in challenging cases.

Spleen: Reparative Regeneration and Influence on Liver

This review considers experimental findings on splenic repair, obtained in two types of small animal (mouse, rat, and rabbit) models: splenic resections and autologous transplantations of splenic tissue. Resection experiments indicate that the spleen is able to regenerate, though not necessarily to the initial volume. The recovery lasts one month and preserves the architecture, albeit with an increase in the relative volume of lymphoid follicles. The renovated tissues, however, exhibit skewed functional profiles; notably, the decreased production of antibodies and the low cytotoxic activity of T cells, consistent with the decline of T-dependent zones and prolonged reduction in T cell numbers. Species-specific differences are evident as well, with the post-repair organ mass deficiency most pronounced in rabbit models. Autotransplantations of splenic material are of particular clinical interest, as the procedure can possibly mitigate the development of post-splenectomy syndrome. Under these conditions, regeneration lasts 1-2 months, depending on the species. The transplants effectively destroy senescent erythrocytes, assist in microbial clearance, and produce antibodies, thus averting sepsis and bacterial pneumonia. Meanwhile, cellular sources of splenic recovery in such models remain obscure, as well as the time required for T and B cell number reconstitution.

Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes from Conversion of Low-Grade to High-Grade Appendiceal Neoplasms for Patients Undergoing Multiple Cytoreductive Surgeries with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

INTRODUCTION

Conversion from low-grade to high-grade disease is known to occur following repeat cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC); however, the incidence rate, risk factors, and outcomes have not been studied.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of multiple CRS/HIPEC cases for patients originally diagnosed with low-grade appendiceal neoplasms, and compared converted cases with non-converters. Primary outcomes were the incidence rate and risk factors for conversion, while secondary outcomes were effect on cytoreduction, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

Overall, 65 patients undergoing 134 cases of repeat CRS/HIPEC were identified; 11 patients converted to high-grade disease, an incidence rate of 16.92%. Converted cases averaged 4.4 years between CRS/HIPEC, versus 3.7 years for non-converters. Elevated baseline carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, splenectomy at index CRS/HIPEC, and adjuvant chemotherapy utilization were statistically significant with conversion. Conversion had no impact on specific cytoreductive scores at repeat CRS/HIPEC (p = 0.435). Evaluating the effect on OS from the index CRS/HIPEC conversion had no impact. Mean OS was 9.5 and 8.8 years for cases that remained low-grade compared with those that converted, respectively (p = 0.668); however, when comparing OS from the time of conversion at repeat CRS/HIPEC, patients who progressed to high-grade disease had decreased survival at 4.4 versus 5.8 years (p = 0.0317). There was no difference in DFS between non-converters and converters at 4.1 and 3.6 years, respectively (p = 0.671).

CONCLUSION

Conversion had no impact on OS from the index CRS/HIPEC but resulted in inferior survival from repeat surgery. Conversion was insignificant in regard to DFS, and should not be considered a contraindication to repeat CRS/HIPEC. Adjuvant chemotherapy should be avoided.

Laparoscopic real-time vessel navigation using indocyanine green fluorescence during the laparoscopic-Warshaw technique: First clinical experience

Background:

Laparoscopic-Warshaw technique (lap-WT) may be selected as a function-preserving operation for malignant border lesions in the tail region of the pancreas. However, previous reports showed that there are complications such as infection and abscess formation due to lack of blood flow to the spleen after surgery. To overcome the problems, we have performed real-time vessel navigation by using indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence during lap-WT.

Materials and Methods:

We report our experience of three patients with pancreatic tumour who underwent real-time vessel navigation during lap-WT at Hokkaido University from May 2017 to September 2018.

Results:

The median operating time was 339 min (174–420). The median intraoperative bleeding was 150 ml (0–480). There were no incidences of complications. There were no cases with post-operative spleen ischaemia or abscess formation and varices formation.

Conclusion:

We believe that laparoscopic real-time vessel navigation using indocyanine green fluorescence during lap-WT could contribute in reducing the post-operative spleen-related complications.

Long-Term Outcomes after Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Results from the US Neuroendocrine Study Group

BACKGROUND

The adoption of spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) for malignant disease such as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) has been controversial. The objective of the current study was to assess the impact of SPDP on outcomes of patients with pNETs.

METHODS

Patients undergoing a distal pancreatectomy for pNET between 2002 and 2016 were identified in the US Neuroendocrine Tumor Study Group database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to compare short- and long-term outcomes of patients undergoing SPDP versus distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS).

RESULTS

Among 621 patients, 103 patients (16.6%) underwent an SPDP. Patients who underwent SPDP were more likely to have lower BMI (median, 27.5 [IQR 24.0-31.2] vs. 28.7 [IQR 25.7-33.6]; p = 0.005) and have undergone minimally invasive surgery (n = 56, 54.4% vs. n = 185, 35.7%; p < 0.001). After PSM, while the median total number of lymph nodes examined among patients who underwent an SPDP was lower compared with DPS (3 [IQR 1-8] vs. 9 [5-13]; p < 0.001), 5-year overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were comparable (OS: 96.8 vs. 92.0%, log-rank p = 0.21, RFS: 91.1 vs. 84.7%, log-rank p = 0.93). In addition, patients undergoing SPDP had less intraoperative blood loss (median, 100 mL [IQR 10-250] vs. 150 mL [IQR 100-400]; p = 0.001), lower incidence of serious complications (n = 13, 12.8% vs. n = 28, 27.5%; p = 0.014), and shorter length of stay (median: 5 days [IQR 4-7] vs. 6 days [IQR 5-13]; p = 0.049) compared with patients undergoing DPS.

CONCLUSION

SPDP for pNET was associated with acceptable perioperative and long-term outcomes that were comparable to DPS. SPDP should be considered for patients with pNET.

Does the Performance of Splenectomy as Part of Cytoreductive Surgery Carry a Worse Prognosis Than in Patients Not Receiving Splenectomy? A Propensity Score Analysis and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Ultra-radical (UR) procedures, including splenectomy, are utilized to increase complete cytoreduction rates during Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) performed with the aim of complete macroscopic clearance of disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate if splenectomy negatively impacts survival when undertaken during CRS for advanced ovarian cancer (AOC) and compare published splenectomy and cytoreduction rates.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all consecutive patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery for AOC between 16/05/2013-28/01/2019. Survival, baseline patient characteristics, complications and surgical parameters were recorded. Propensity scored matching (PSM) was performed to reduce bias.

RESULTS

154 patients identified over 71 months. 97 underwent standard, 57 underwent UR surgery, 27 patients received splenectomy (17.5%) No difference was seen in overall survival (OS) between all patients (median OS 34 months (95%CI 25.9-41.1) and patients who underwent splenectomy (median OS not yet reached) (p = >0.05). After PSM for various baseline covariates, no significant difference in splenectomy versus non-splenectomy patients (3-year survival 54% compared to 56%) (P > 0.05). Three splenectomy specific complications occurred; one each of pancreatic tail injury, left pleural effusion and streptococcal pharyngitis during chemotherapy. We found wide variation in utilization of splenectomy in published case series; from 9% to 35%.

CONCLUSIONS

Splenectomy performed as part of CRS is not detrimental to survival in AOC. There is a wide variation in utilization of splenectomy in published case series with little correlation with cytoreduction rates.

Distal pancreatectomy for pancreatic neoplasia: is splenectomy really necessary? A bicentric retrospective analysis of surgical specimens

BACKGROUND

While distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS) is the reference treatment for pancreatic body and tail neoplasia, oncological benefits of splenectomy have never been demonstrated. Involvement of spleen, splenic hilum and lymph nodes (LN) was therefore assessed on DPS specimens.

METHODS

All DPS pancreatic neoplasia specimens obtained in 2 Brussels University Hospitals over 15 years (2004-2018) were reviewed retrospectively, using both preoperative radiological imaging and postoperative pathological analyses of splenic parenchyma, hilar tissue and LN.

RESULTS

The total of 130 DPS specimens included 85 adenocarcinomas, 37 neuroendocrine neoplasms and 8 other carcinomas. Tumours involved the pancreatic body without tail invasion for 59 specimens (B, Body group), and the pancreatic tail with/without body for 71 (T, Tail group). At pathology, direct splenic and/or hilar involvement was observed in 13 T specimens (13/71, 18.3%), but in none belonging to the Body group. The observed numbers of splenic hilar LN (only reported in 49/130 patients) were low, only one T adenocarcinoma had positive splenic LN in addition to direct splenic involvement.

CONCLUSION

Splenectomy remains justified during pancreatectomy for neoplasia involving the pancreatic tail, but in case of pancreatic body tumours, its benefits should be questioned in the light of absent splenic LN/parenchymal involvement.

Postoperative risk of pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy with or without spleen preservation

INTRODUCTION

Outcomes after distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy are controversial. The present study aims to investigate differences in short-term and long-term outcomes between spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) and distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS).

METHODS

In this retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy from January 2011 until December 2017 for benign disease, the primary endpoint was to compare postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). The secondary endpoint was to compare duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and long-term outcomes.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing SPDP had a lower rate of POPF (13.6% vs 46.1%; p = 0.02). Patients undergoing SPDP (n = 22) were discharged earlier than patients undergoing DPS (n = 26) (8 [4-29] vs 12 [6.48] days; p = 0.003). No differences in other intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were found between groups.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing SPDP developed fewer POPF and were discharged earlier compared to patients undergoing DPS.

Rare Causes of Isolated and Progressive Splenic Lesions: Challenges in Differential Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Primary Splenic Lymphomas

The spleen is among the most common extranodal sites for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHLs); however, among lymphomas arising from the spleen, primary splenic lymphomas (PSLs) are rare. The group of PSLs includes primary splenic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PS-DLBCL), splenic red pulp small B-cell lymphoma, splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL), and a splenic hairy cell leukemia variant. Delineating between the PSL variants can be challenging, especially as fine-needle aspirate and core needle biopsy of the spleen are not routinely offered at most medical centers. Herein, we describe the clinical course of 2 representative patients who presented with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms, the first who was diagnosed with PS-DLBCL and the second who was diagnosed with SMZL. We review and contrast the clinical presentations, imaging techniques, and laboratory findings of these discrete lymphoma variants and offer strategies on how to delineate between these varied splenic processes. We also examine the use of splenectomy and splenic needle biopsy as diagnostics and, in the case of splenectomy, a therapeutic tool. Finally, we also briefly review treatment options for these varied lymphoma sub-types while acknowledging that randomized trials to guide best practices for PSLs are lacking.

Generation of Myeloid Cells in Cancer: The Spleen Matters

Myeloid cells are key components of the tumor microenvironment and critical regulators of disease progression. These innate immune cells are usually short-lived and require constant replenishment. Emerging evidence indicates that tumors alter the host hematopoietic system and induce the biased differentiation of myeloid cells to tip the balance of the systemic immune activities toward tumor-promoting functions. Altered myelopoiesis is not restricted to the bone marrow and also occurs in extramedullary organs. In this review, we outline the recent advances in the field of cancer-associated myelopoiesis, with a focus on the spleen, the major site of extramedullary hematopoiesis in the cancer setting. We discuss the functional specialization, distinct mechanisms, and clinical relevance of cancer-associated myeloid cell generation from early progenitors in the spleen and its potential as a novel therapeutic target.

Revisiting the potential advantage of robotic surgical system in spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy over conventional laparoscopic approach

Background

This study aimed to compare success rate of spleen preservation between robotic and laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (DP).

Methods

Between November 2007 and March 2018, forty-one patients underwent the conventional laparoscopic DP (Lap group) and the other 37 patients underwent robotic DP (Robot group). The perioperative clinicopathologic variables were compared.

Results

The robotic procedure was chosen by younger patients compared to conventional laparoscopic surgery (42.9±14.0 vs. 51.3±14.6 years, P=0.016). The mean operation time was longer (313 vs. 246 min, P=0.000), but the mean tumor size was smaller in Robot group (2.7±1.2 vs. 4.2±3.3 cm, P=0.018). The overall spleen-preserving rate was higher in the Robot group (91.9% vs. 68.3%, P=0.012). However, with accumulating laparoscopic experiences (after 16th case), the statistical differences in spleen preservation rate between the Robot and Lap groups had diminished (P=0.428).

Conclusions

The present results suggest a robot can be helpful to save the spleen during DP for benign and borderline malignancy. However, a surgeon highly experienced in the laparoscopic approach can also produce a high success rate of spleen preservation, similar to that shown with the robotic approach.

Romiplostim for the Treatment of Immune Thrombocytopenia: Spotlight on Patient Acceptability and Ease of Use

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an immune-mediated disorder resulting in platelet destruction and subsequent thrombocytopenia. Bleeding symptoms range from mild cutaneous bleeding to life-threatening hemorrhage. Romiplostim, a peptide-antibody fusion product, is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist (TPO-RA) indicated for use in patients with ITP. Romiplostim is US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved in children ≥1 year of age with ITP of >6 months' duration who have had an inadequate response to first-line therapies or splenectomy. FDA approval in adults with chronic ITP was expanded in October 2019 to include adults with newly diagnosed (<3 months' duration) and persistent (3-12 months' duration) ITP who demonstrated an inadequate response to first-line therapies, including corticosteroids and immunoglobulins, or splenectomy. The newly published 2019 American Society of Hematology ITP Guidelines place TPO-RAs, including romiplostim, as second-line therapies in both children and adults. Here, we review the use of romiplostim as second-line therapy with a spotlight on health-related quality of life, ease of use, and patient preference.

Disadvantages of Complete No. 10 Lymph Node Dissection in Gastric Cancer and the Possibility of Spleen-Preserving Dissection: Review

Splenic hilar lymph node dissection has been the standard treatment for advanced proximal gastric cancer. Splenectomy is typically performed as part of this procedure. However, splenectomy has some disadvantages, such as increased risk of postoperative complications, especially pancreatic fistula. Moreover, patients who underwent splenectomy are vulnerable to potentially fatal infection caused by encapsulated bacteria. Furthermore, several studies have shown an association of splenectomy with cancer development and increased risk of thromboembolic events. Therefore, splenectomy should be avoided if it does not confer a distinct oncological advantage. Most studies that compared patients who underwent splenectomy and those who did not failed to demonstrate the efficacy of splenectomy. Based on the results of a randomized controlled trial conducted in Japan, prophylactic dissection with splenectomy is no longer recommended in patients with gastric cancer with no invasion of the greater curvature. However, patients with greater curvature invasion or those with remnant gastric cancer still need to undergo splenectomy to facilitate splenic hilar node dissection. Spleen-preserving splenic hilar node dissection is a new procedure that may help delink splenic hilar node dissection and splenectomy. In this review, we examine the evidence pertaining to the efficacy and disadvantages of splenectomy. We discuss the possibility of spleen-preserving surgery for prophylactic splenic hilar node dissection to overcome the disadvantages of splenectomy.

Position of the Pancreas Division Line and Postoperative Outcomes After Distal Pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

In distal pancreatectomy (DP), the position of the pancreas division line (PDL) changes depending on the location or nature of the tumor. Here, we investigated the relationship between PDL and postoperative complications after DP.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data of 140 patients who underwent DP at Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between January 2011 and September 2018. PDL was defined as the distance from the left margin of the portal vein to the edge of the pancreatic stump on the coronal plane of computed tomography.

RESULTS

The mean PDL was 15.1 (range 0-74.3) mm. PDL was significantly longer in patients with portal venous system thrombosis (PVST) than in those without PVST (47.6 vs. 0 mm, p < 0.001). The PDL_long (≥ 20 mm) group underwent surgery with a significantly shorter duration (253 vs. 294 min, p < 0.001) and experienced a lower volume of blood loss (20 vs. 256.5 mL, p < 0.001) than the PDL_short (< 20 mm) group. Six months after surgery, the increase in HbA1c level was significantly higher in the PDL_short group than in the PDL_long group (0.5 vs. 0.35%, p = 0.041). Except for PVST, there was no significant difference in postoperative complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In DP, pancreas resection with a longer PDL resulted in a significantly shorter duration of surgery, lower estimated blood loss, and superior glucose tolerance than that with a shorter PDL.

Laparoscopic Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy (LSPDP) versus Open Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy (OSPDP): A Comparative Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare outcomes between laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) and open spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (OSPDP) for treatment of benign and low-grade malignant tumors of the pancreas and evaluate feasibility and safety of LSPDP.

METHODS

The clinical data of 53 cases of LSPDP and 44 cases of OSPDP performed between January 2008 and August 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The clinical outcomes between the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in preoperative data between the two groups. However, the LSPDP group had statistically significant shorter operative time (145.3±55.9 versus 184.7±33.5, P=0.03) and lesser intraoperative blood loss (150.6±180.8 versus 253.5±76.2, P=0.03) than that of the OSPDP group. Moreover, the LSPDP group also had statistically significant earlier passing of first flatus (2.2±1.4 versus 3.1±1.9, P=0.01), earlier diet intake (2.3±1.8 versus 3.4±2.0, P=0.01), and shorter hospital stay (6.2±7.2 versus 8.8±9.3, 0.04) than that of the OSPDP group. However, postoperative pancreatic fistula (P=0.64) and total postoperative complications (P=0.59) were not significantly different between the groups. The rate of pancreatic fistula and total postoperative complications occurred in 62.5% and 64.5%, respectively, in LSPDP group and, similarly, 70% and 70.0%, respectively, in OSPDP group.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that LSPDP is safe, feasible, and superior to OSPDP in terms of operative time, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, and postoperative recovery. Hence, it is worth popularizing LSPDP for benign and low-grade malignant tumors of the pancreas.

Splenic preservation versus splenectomy in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy: a propensity score-matched study

Background

The laparoscopic approach in distal pancreatectomy is associated with higher rates of splenic preservation compared to open surgery. Although favorable postoperative short-term outcomes have been reported in open spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy when compared to distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy, it is unclear whether this observation applies to the laparoscopic approach. The aim of this study is to compare laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) with laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (LDPS).

Study design

This is a UK wide, propensity score-matched study, including patients who underwent LSPDP or LDPS between 2006 and 2016. Short-term outcomes were compared between LSPDP and LDPS according to intention to treat. Additionally, risk factors for unplanned splenectomy were explored.

Results

A total of 456 patients were included from eleven centers (229 LSPDP and 227 LDPS). We were able to match 173 LSPDP cases to 173 LDPS cases, according to intention to treat. No differences were seen in postoperative morbidity between the groups. The only identified risk factor for unplanned splenectomy was tumor size ≥ 30 mm.

Conclusions

Preserving the spleen during laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy is not associated with a lower postoperative morbidity compared to sacrificing the spleen. Tumor size is a risk factor for unplanned splenectomy.

Splenectomy may have more complications than currently proven

The spleen has been one of the least understood major organs for centuries. Its significance is relatively well-known today but it seems that all aspects of its activities are not fully understood. Persian medicine (PM) has special views on the function of spleen; many side effects were reported in PM due to spleen dysfunction. On the other hand nowadays splenectomy as a treatment strategy is recommended for some disorders and increasing risk of infections is considered as the most important long term side effect of that. In this study, we hypothesize that splenectomy may have more side effects than currently proven. According to PM, spleen is in close connection with liver, cardiovascular system, stomach, bone, brain and skin, and that is why any kind of spleen dysfunction leads to change in blood viscosity, appetite and bone strength, liver dysfunction, mood and skin disorders, cancer formation and fever. Considering this viewpoint it can be hypothesized such side effects may also occur after splenectomy. Proven complications of splenectomy include hypercoagulated state, cardiovascular events and infectious diseases but there is also some evidence about increased risk of cancer, skin disease like systemic lupus erythematosus, mood disorder such as depression, defective bone formation and impairment of immunity which can be considered as different levels of evidence to confirm the hypothesis. But for some others such as changes in appetite, there are no studies let alone convincing evidence. Future research about theses possible complications may lead to novel results.

Laparoscopic Spleen-Preserving Distal Pancreatectomy (LSPDP) with Preservation of Splenic Vessels: An Inferior-Posterior Approach

Objective

To summarize the operation experience of laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) with preservation of splenic vessels by an inferior-posterior dissection of the pancreatic body and evaluate its feasibility.

Methods

Patients undergoing LSPDS at Ningbo Li Huili Hospital and Ningbo Li Huili Eastern Hospital from January 2014 to April 2017 were recruited in this study and were analyzed retrospectively. They were divided into two groups based on the surgical approach: the inferior-posterior approach group and the other approach group. We sought to compare outcomes of the two groups.

Results

The LSPDP procedure was completed successfully in 49 cases, and 48 patients had their splenic artery and vein preserved, including 26 cases in the inferior-posterior approach group and 22 cases in the other approach group. There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to age (p = 0.18), sex (p = 0.56), preoperative diabetes (p = 1.00), ASA grading (p = 1.00), tumor size (p = 0.91), intraoperative blood loss (t = −0.01, p = 0.99), hospital stay (t = −0.02, p = 0.98), and pancreatic fistula rates (p = 1.00). Patients undergoing LSPDP by the inferior-posterior approach had a shorter operative time (t = −4.13, p < 0.001) than the other approach group.

Conclusions

LSPDS by the inferior-posterior approach associated with shorter operative time is safe and feasible.

Adverse prognostic impact of splenectomy on survival in gastric carcinoma patients: Regression and propensity score matching analysis of 1074 patients

BACKGROUNDS

Patients with proximal gastric carcinoma undergo total gastrectomy with concomitant splenectomy to ensure the complete removal of splenic hilar lymph nodes. However, the impact of splenectomy on survival remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the impact of splenectomy on survival among patients with gastric carcinoma.

METHODS

Of 1074 patients who underwent total gastrectomy for proximal gastric carcinoma between 2006 and 2014, 229 patients underwent concomitant splenectomy or pancreaticosplenectomy during surgery. We investigated the prognostic impact of splenectomy using a regression and propensity score matched model.

RESULTS

The splenectomy and non-splenectomy groups differed in many baseline characteristics, including tumor stage, and had respective crude 5-year survival rates of 55% and 81% (p <0.001). In a multivariate analysis adjusted for TNM stage and other prognostic factors, splenectomy was an independent poor prognostic factor for overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11-2.51) and disease-free survival (HR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.24-2.10). A survival evaluation stratified by TNM stage showed that splenectomy adversely affected survival among patients with stage III, but not stage I, II, and IV disease. In the propensity score-matched sample, splenectomy group also showed significantly worse overall survival (5-year, 65% vs. 79%, p = 0.010) and disease-free survival (5-year, 55% vs. 72%, p = 0.025) and was an independent poor prognostic factor in a multivariate analysis adjusting TNM stage and other prognostic factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Splenectomy adversely affects survival, particularly among patients with stage III gastric carcinoma, and should be avoided unless there is direct invasion to the splenic hilum.

Robotic distal pancreatectomy: Comparison of spleen-preservation by the Warshaw technique and splenectomy

BACKGROUND

Outcomes after robotic distal pancreatectomy with spleen preservation (RDP-SP) by the Warshaw technique and with splenectomy (RDP-S) were compared.

METHODS

All the data for patients undergoing robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP) were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

A total of 66 patients were included, with 33 in each group. The console time was significantly shorter in the RDP-SP group than in the RDP-S group (165 minutes vs. 220 minutes). The median blood loss was 50 cm³ in the RDP-SP group and 100 cm³ in the RDP-S group. The surgical morbidity was significantly lower in RDP-SP group (18% vs. 58%). Spleen infarction (15%), gastric varices (6%) and perigastric varices (45%) after RDP-SP were not associated with any subsequent complication. Postoperative platelet count and white blood cell (WBC) count were significantly higher in the RDP-S group.

CONCLUSIONS

Both RDP-SP and RDP-S are feasible in selected patients. RDP-SP is feasible and time-saving. Although gastric/perigastric varices and spleen infarction are not uncommon after RDP-SP, they appear to be clinically irrelevant.

A case of complete splenic infarction after laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP), a newly developed operative procedure, is indicated for benign and low-grade malignant disease of the pancreas. However, few studies have reported on postoperative splenic infarction after LSPDP.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of complete splenic infarction and obliteration of the splenic artery and vein after LSPDP. The patient was a 69-year-old woman with a 35-mm cystic tumor of the pancreatic body who underwent LSPDP. Although the operation was completed with preservation of the splenic artery and vein, postoperative splenic infarction was revealed with left back pain and fluid collection around the stump of the pancreas on postoperative day 9. Fortunately, clinical symptoms disappeared within days and additional splenectomy was not needed. Splenic infarction was attributed to scattered micro-embolizations within the spleen after drawing strongly on the tape encircling the splenic vessels.

CONCLUSION

Preserving splenic vessels in LSPDP is a demanding procedure. To prevent splenic infarction in LSPDP, we should carefully isolate the pancreatic parenchyma from the splenic vessels, and must avoid drawing tightly on the vessel loop encircling splenic vessels.

Usefulness of fluorescence vascular imaging for evaluating splenic perfusion

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to confirm whether intraoperative fluorescence vascular imaging using indocyanine green (FVI-ICG) is useful for evaluating splenic perfusion after spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) performed with the Warshaw technique (SPDP-W).

METHODS

We evaluated the blood perfusion of the spleen with an intraoperative FVI-ICG system after SPDP-W. All of the patients underwent dynamic computed tomography (CT) scans at one post-operative week and one post-operative month to evaluate the post-operative blood perfusion of the spleen. Then, the post-operative perfusion status of the spleen according to CT and the intraoperative fluorescence status of the spleen were compared.

RESULTS

Five patients were enrolled in this study. None of the patients required secondary splenectomies. We detected a tendency towards a close relationship between the intraoperative fluorescence level of the spleen according to FVI-ICG performed after SPDP-W and post-operative splenic perfusion as evaluated by CT. Improved splenic perfusion was seen at one post-operative month in all cases, including a case in which poor splenic perfusion was initially detected.

CONCLUSION

We detected a close relationship between the fluorescence level of the spleen on intraoperative FVI-ICG and the post-operative perfusion status of the spleen among patients who underwent SPDP-W. Intraoperative FVI-ICG could help surgeons to safely preserve the spleen after SPDP-W.

Splenic preservation in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy

Background

Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) is designed principally for the removal of benign and low-grade malignant lesions in the left pancreas. The aims of this study were to compare LSPDP with laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (LDPS), compare two splenic preservation techniques (splenic vessel preservation and Warshaw technique) and investigate factors that influence splenic preservation.

Methods

Information from patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy between December 2004 and January 2016 at a single institution was reviewed. Data were extracted from a prospectively developed database. Intention-to-treat and propensity score matching analyses were employed. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to investigate factors affecting splenic preservation.

Results

There were 206 patients in total (126 planned LSPDP and 80 planned LDPS procedures), of whom 108 underwent LSPDP and 98 LDPS. In intention-to-treat analysis, the duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the LSPDP group than in the LDPS group (mean 191·0 versus 220·5 min respectively; P &lt; 0·001). Tumour size was an independent risk factor for splenic vessel resection in planned splenic vessel preservation operations, and a cut-off value of 3 cm provided optimal diagnostic accuracy. After a median follow-up of 35·9 months, there were no clinically significant splenic infarctions and no patient developed gastrointestinal bleeding after LSPDP.

Conclusion

Planned LSPDP had a high splenic preservation rate and was associated with significantly shorter operating time than LDPS. Splenic vessel preservation could be predicted using a tumour cut-off size of 3 cm.

Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy for Unknown Primary Cancer: A Stepwise Approach

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic partial splenectomy (LPS) for focal splenic lesions is technically demanding and carries risk of hemorrhage. Nevertheless, it can be a valuable option, particularly for children and adults in whom attempt at preservation of splenic immunologic function outweighs risk associated with organ preservation.

PATIENT

A 58-year-old man was diagnosed with a focal splenic lesion at the upper splenic pole on surveillance imaging following axillary lymph node metastasis for cancer of unknown primary origin (CUP). After an interval of 8 months, repeat FDG-PET showed increase in size and PET-avidity without any evidence of new lesions. Due to isolated site and history of CUP, the patient was considered for a LPS.

TECHNIQUE

With the patient in reversed modified French position, the upper pole splenic vessels were controlled and a well-defined area of ischemia encompassing the lesion identified. Under intermittent inflow occlusion and ultrasonography guidance, the parenchymal transection was performed. Total operative time was 180 min, estimated blood loss was 175 cc, the patient was discharged on postoperative day 2, and final pathology confirmed an Epstein-Barr virus associated inflammatory pseudotumor.1 ^, 2 CONCLUSION: Safe LPS requires systematic pre-operative assessment of hilar vascular anatomy and a stepwise approach to controlling the vessels intra-operatively. Anatomic parenchymal transection and intermitted vascular isolation for lesions close to the demarcation zone minimizes blood loss. Risk/benefit stratification of LPS may be beneficial in select patients only. Whether in patients with CUP LPS may aid in preserving innate and adaptive immunity with potential clinical, including oncologic, benefits will require further investigations.3 ^- 5.

Splenic Preservation Versus Splenectomy During Distal Pancreatectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Studies have been published comparing spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) with distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS), but the results remain inconsistent. The aim of this study was to compare SPDP with DPS by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Literature searches of the Medline/PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were performed to identify relevant studies published before April 30,2015. Perioperative outcomes of SPDP and DPS were evaluated. The meta-analysis was performed in random- or fixed-effects models, as appropriate. A subanalysis was conducted to compare the two techniques of splenic preservation: splenic vessel preservation (SVP) and Warshaw technique (WT).

RESULTS

Eighteen studies and 1156 patients were included in the comparison between SPDP and DPS. A total of 502 of these patients underwent SPDP and 654 underwent DPS. Meta-analysis showed the SPDP group had significantly fewer infectious complications (odds ratio [OR] 0.57, P = 0.006), less operative blood loss (P<0.0001), lower overall morbidity rate (OR 0.66, P = 0.002), and lower clinical pancreatic fistula rate (OR 0.42, P = 0.002) than the DPS group. Subanalysis indicated the SVP group had significantly lower rate of spleen infarction (OR 0.12, P<0.00001) and fewer secondary splenectomies (OR 0.13, P = 0.008) than the WT group.

CONCLUSIONS

SPDP was a safe procedure associated with better short-term outcomes than DPS. SVP could provide more sufficient blood perfusion for the conserved spleen than WT. However, the evidence is limited, and more randomized controlled trials are warranted.

A single-center experience with the laparoscopic Warshaw technique in 122 consecutive patients

Background

Preservation of the spleen in distal pancreatectomy has recently attracted considerable attention. Our current study aimed in the first instance to define the safety of lap-WT in relation to the capacity of this technique to achieve preservation of the spleen and secondly to investigate the effectiveness of a planned lap-WT procedure or early conversion to lap-WT in selected patients with a large tumor attached to the splenic vessels.

Methods

Among 1056 patients who underwent a laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy between January 2005 and December 2014 at our hospital, 122 (24.6 %) underwent lap-WT which were analyzed. The 122 patients were categorized into two groups chronologically (early group: 2005–2012, late group: 2013–2014).

Results

The median follow-up was 35 months, and the median operation time was 181 min. The median postoperative hospital stay was 7 days, and the median estimated blood loss was 316 ml. Postoperative complications occurred in 9 patients (7.3 %), including 4 patients (3.2 %) with major pancreatic fistula (ISGPF grade B, C). A reoperation to address postoperative bleeding was needed in one patient. During a median follow-up of 35 months, there were no clinical significant splenic infarctions or gastric varices in any case. All patients were observed conservatively. In patients in the late group who underwent the lap-WT, the mean operating time (171 vs. 205 min, p = 0.001) and mean estimated blood loss (232.1 vs. 370.0 ml, p = 0.017) were significantly less than the early group cases who received lap-WT.

Conclusions

A lap-WT is a safe treatment strategy in select cases when used as a way of preserving the spleen. When splenic vessel preservation is technically challenging, for example when the tumor is enlarged or is attached to the splenic vessels, planned lap-WT or early conversion to lap-WT may be a feasible option.

Gaucher disease and comorbidities: B-cell malignancy and parkinsonism

Data emerging from the International Collaborative Gaucher Group (ICGG) Gaucher Registry together with other contemporary clinical surveys have revealed a close association between Gaucher disease and non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma and myeloma and Gaucher disease and Parkinson's disease. Several possible explanations for increased B-cell proliferation and neoplasia in Gaucher disease have been proposed, including the possible influence of sphingosine (derived from the extra lysosomal metabolism of glucosylceramide), gene modifiers, splenectomy and immune system deregulation induced by cytokines, chemokines, and hydrolases released from Gaucher cells. Parkinson's disease is frequently seen in the otherwise-healthy relatives of Gaucher disease patients leading to the finding that GBA mutations represent a genetic risk factor for Parkinson's disease. The mechanism of the association between GBA mutations and Parkinson's disease has yet to be elucidated but the pathogenesis appears distinct from that of Gaucher disease. Several pathogenic pathways have been proposed including lysosomal and/or mitochondrial dysfunction. The effect of Gaucher disease specific therapies on the incidence of cancer or Parkinson's disease are not clear and will likely be evaluated in future ICGG Gaucher Registry studies.

Splenic vessel preservation versus Warshaw's technique during spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Splenic preservation can be achieved through splenic vessel resection by Warshaw's technique (WT) or by preserving the splenic vessels. This meta-analysis aims to provide evidence-based comparison regarding the perioperative outcome and long-term benefits between patients with and without splenic vessel preservation (SVP) during spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy.

METHOD

A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate studies comparing splenic vessel preservation versus resection groups. Ten retrospective studies including 699 patients were eligible for an analysis of general, perioperative, and long-term outcomes. A further analysis composed of five subgroups was also conducted in terms of laparoscopic approach.

RESULTS

Warshaw's technique related to significant shorter operation time (P < 0.0001). There was no difference in blood loss (P = 0.45) as well as median tumor size (p = 0.1) between the two groups. The overall rate of complications indicated no difference between SVP and WT (P = 0.1), including pancreatic fistula rates, which were not statistically different among the treatment groups (P = 0.27). However, the occurrence of gastric varices and splenic infarction was significant higher in the WT group (P < 0.01). In laparoscopic subgroups, patients treated by WT had much lower blood loss (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

In spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy, comparing with SVP, there is no evidence of significant benefit of WT. Nonetheless, surgeons should master both techniques and choose an appropriate one based on personal experience and a "case by case" situation. However, the current available evidence is weak, and further randomized controlled data are warranted.

Splenectomy inhibits non-small cell lung cancer growth by modulating anti-tumor adaptive and innate immune response

It has been shown that inhibitors of the immune system reside in the spleen and inhibit the endogenous antitumor effects of the immune system. We hypothesized that splenectomy would inhibit the growth of relatively large non-small lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors by modulating the systemic inhibition of the immune system, and in particular Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells (MDSC). The effect of splenectomy was evaluated in several murine lung cancer models. We found that splenectomy reduces tumor growth and the development of lung metastases, but only in advanced tumors. In immune-deficient NOD-SCID mice the effect of splenectomy on tumor growth and metastatic spread disappeared. Splenectomy significantly reduced the presence of MDSC, and especially monocytic-MDSC in the circulation and inside the tumor. Specific reduction of the CCR2+ subset of monocytic MDSC was demonstrated, and the importance of the CCL2-CCR2 axis was further shown by a marked reduction in CCL2 following splenectomy. These changes were followed by changes in the macrophages contents of the tumors to become more antitumorigenic, and by increased activation of CD8⁺ Cytotoxic T-cells (CTL). By MDSC depletion, and adoptive transfer of MDSCs, we demonstrated that the effect of splenectomy on tumor growth was substantially mediated by MDSC cells. We conclude that the spleen is an important contributor to tumor growth and metastases, and that splenectomy can blunt this effect by depletion of MDSC, changing the amount and characteristics of myeloid cells and enhancing activation of CTL.

Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy: the technique must suit the lesion

Splenic preservation is currently recommended during minimally invasive surgery for benign tumors of the distal pancreas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients undergoing laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy, with particular attention paid to the technique used for spleen preservation (splenic vessel ligation vs preservation). A review of consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with the intention of splenic preservation was conducted. Patient demographics, operative data, and outcomes were collected and analyzed. Fifty-five consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with the intention of splenic preservation; 5 required splenectomy (9 %). Of the remaining 50 patients, 31 (62 %) had splenic vessel ligation, and 19 (38 %) had vessel preservation. Patient demographics and tumor size were similar. The vessel ligation group had significantly more pancreas removed (95 vs 52 mm, P < 0.001) and longer operative times (256 vs 201 min, P = 0.008). Postoperative outcomes, complication rates, and splenic viability were similar between groups. Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy is a safe operation with a high rate of success (91 %). Vessel ligation was the chosen technical strategy for lesions that required resection of a greater length of pancreas. We found no advantage to either technique with respect to outcomes and splenic preservation. Operative approach should reflect technical considerations including location in the pancreas.

Clinical comparison of distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy: a meta-analysis

Objective

A distal pancreatectomy has routinely been used for removing benign/borderline malignant tumors of the body and tail of the pancreas; however, controversy exists whether or not the spleen should be saved. Therefore, we conducted this meta-analysis for comparing the clinical outcomes of patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy.

Methods

A literature research from the databases of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library was performed to evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes between spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) and distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS). Pooled odds ratio (OR) and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated using fixed-effects or random-effects models.

Results

Eleven non-randomized controlled studies involving 897 patients were selected to satisfy the inclusion criteria; 355 patients underwent SPDP and 542 patients underwent DPS. Compared with DPS, SPDP required a shorter hospital stay (WMD = 1.16, 95% CI = −2.00 to −0.31, P = 0.007), and had a lower incidence of intra-abdominal abscesses (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.27 to 0.83, P = 0.009). In addition, spleen infarctions occurred in SPDP, most of which involved use of the Warshaw method for preserving the spleen. There were no differences between the SPDP and DPS groups with respect to operative time, operative blood loss, requirement for blood transfusion, pancreatic fistulas, thromboses, post-operative bleeding, wound infections and re-operation rates.

Conclusion

SPDP should be performed due to the benefits of the immune system and quick post-operative recovery. It is also essential to preserve the splenic artery and vein. Large randomized controlled trials are further needed to verify the results of this meta-analysis.

Gaucher disease: haematological presentations and complications

Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disease, caused by deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase, required for the degradation of glycosphingolipids. Clinical manifestations include hepatosplenomegaly, thrombocytopenia, bone disease and a bleeding diathesis, frequently resulting in presentation to haematologists. Historically managed by splenectomy, transfusions and orthopaedic surgery, the development of specific therapy in the form of intravenous enzyme replacement therapy in the 1990s has resulted in dramatic improvements in haematological and visceral disease. Recognition of complications, including multiple myeloma and Parkinson disease, has challenged the traditional macrophage-centric view of the pathophysiology of this disorder. The pathways by which enzyme deficiency results in the clinical manifestations of this disorder are poorly understood; altered inflammatory cytokine profiles, bioactive sphingolipid derivatives and alterations in the bone marrow microenvironment have been implicated. Further elucidating these pathways will serve to advance our understanding not only of GD, but of associated disorders.

The spleen in local and systemic regulation of immunity

The spleen is the main filter for blood-borne pathogens and antigens, as well as a key organ for iron metabolism and erythrocyte homeostasis. Also, immune and hematopoietic functions have been recently unveiled for the mouse spleen, suggesting additional roles for this secondary lymphoid organ. Here we discuss the integration of the spleen in the regulation of immune responses locally and in the whole body and present the relevance of findings for our understanding of inflammatory and degenerative diseases and their treatments. We consider whether equivalent activities in humans are known, as well as initial therapeutic attempts to target the spleen for modulating innate and adaptive immunity.

Comparison of Laparoscopic Distal Pancreatectomy with or without Splenic Preservation

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) has gained large popularity in recent years, although the choice of whether to preserve the spleen has remained inconsistent. The aim of our study was to report our experiences with LDP and to provide evidence for the safety of the operative technique and an evaluation index of splenic function. We retrospectively evaluated all LDPs performed at our institution between March 2008 and February 2012. Cases were divided into a laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) group (n = 14) and an LDP with splenectomy (LDPS) group (n = 19). Parametric and nonparametric statistical analyses were used to compare perioperative and oncologic outcomes. Demographic characteristics, operating time, length of stay, estimated blood loss, transfusion requirement, pathologic diagnosis, and complication rate were similar between groups. Patients who underwent LDPS tended to have larger masses and lower pancreatic fistula rates, but these differences were not significant. White blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly higher in the LDPS group than in the LSPDP group on postoperative days 1 and 7. To avoid splenectomy-associated complications, preservation of the spleen and especially the splenic vessels are preferred. This procedure can be performed safely and feasibly. Lower postoperative WBC counts may imply better splenic function.