Postoperative glycemic control after central pancreatectomy for mid-gland lesions

Experience in the resection of the uncinate process of the pancreas: Indications and results. Literature review

INTRODUCTION

The aim of our study is to assess the accumulated experience in the use of uncinatectomy (UC) as a parenchymal-sparing pancreatectomy technique.

METHOD

We have carried out a observational and descriptive study including restrospectively all the patients undergoing UC at Hospital Universitary de Bellvitge (HUB) and an exhaustive review of the cases described in the english literature.

RESULTS

From 2003 to 2019, seven patients have been operated by UC in the HUB with a diagnostic orientation of pancreatic lesion considered premalignant. All patients have presented morbidity, mainly in the form of postoperative pancreatic fistula, and none of them have presented endocrine or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Currently, all patients are alive and without recurrence of neoplastic disease. Another 29 cases have been described in the literature. Of all the cases (36 patients), the approach was minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic) in 6 patients (16.7%), leading to a shorter hospital stay. The global incidence of pancreatic fistula is 50%, with a re-admission rate of less than 10%, but without requiring re-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

UC is an infrequent and poorly standardized technique for the resection of benign lesions or those with low potential for malignancy located in the uncinate process of the pancreas. Although it is associated with equal or greater morbidity than standardized resection techniques, it offers excellent preservation of endocrine and exocrine pancreatic function, with the consequent long-term benefit in the patients life quality.

Minimally invasive versus open central pancreatectomy: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to give an overview on the postoperative outcome after a minimally invasive (ie, laparoscopic and robot-assisted) central pancreatectomy and open central pancreatectomy with a specific emphasis on the postoperative pancreatic fistula. For benign and low-grade malignant lesions in the pancreatic neck and body, central pancreatectomy may be an alternative to distal pancreatectomy. Exocrine and endocrine insufficiency occur less often after central pancreatectomy, but the rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula is higher.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed for studies on elective minimally invasive central pancreatectomy and open central pancreatectomy, which reported on major morbidity and postoperative pancreatic fistula in PubMed, Cochrane Register, Embase, and Google Scholar until June 1, 2021. A review protocol was developed a priori and registered in PROSPERO as CRD42021259738. A meta-regression was performed by using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Overall, 41 studies were included involving 1,004 patients, consisting of 158 laparoscopic minimally invasive central pancreatectomies, 80 robot-assisted minimally invasive central pancreatectomies, and 766 open central pancreatectomies. The overall rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula was 14%, major morbidity 14%, and 30-day mortality 1%. The rates of postoperative pancreatic fistula (17% vs 24%, P = .194), major morbidity (17% vs 14%, P = .672), and new-onset diabetes (3% vs 6%, P = .353) did not differ significantly between minimally invasive central pancreatectomy and open central pancreatectomy, respectively. Minimally invasive central pancreatectomy was associated with significantly fewer blood transfusions, less exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and fewer readmissions compared with open central pancreatectomy. A meta-regression was performed with a random effects model between minimally invasive central pancreatectomy and open central pancreatectomy and showed no significant difference for postoperative pancreatic fistula (random effects model 0.16 [0.10; 0.24] with P = .789), major morbidity (random effects model 0.20 [0.15; 0.25] with P = .410), and new-onset diabetes mellitus (random effects model 0.04 [0.02; 0.07] with P = .651).

CONCLUSION

In selected patients and in experienced hands, minimally invasive central pancreatectomy is a safe alternative to open central pancreatectomy for benign and low-grade malignant lesions of the neck and body. Ideally, further research should confirm this with the main focus on postoperative pancreatic fistula and endocrine and exocrine insufficiency.

Practical approach to clinical controversies in glycemic control for hospitalized surgical patients

The importance of glycemic management in surgical patient populations stems from an association between hyperglycemia and increased rates of surgical site infections, sepsis, and mortality. Various guidelines provide recommendations regarding target glucose concentrations, but all stress the importance of avoiding hypoglycemia as well. Within the surgical patient population, glycemic targets may vary further depending on the surgical service, such as cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, or reconstructive burn surgery. Glycemic management in critically ill surgical patients is achieved primarily through the use of intravenous insulin infusion protocols. These protocols can include fixed protocols, multiplication factor protocols, and computerized algorithms. In contrast, noncritically ill surgical patients are generally managed through the utilization of subcutaneous insulin with a combination of basal, bolus, and sliding scale insulin. Insulin protocols should be effective at maintaining glucose concentrations within the specified target range with minimal hypoglycemic events. Monitoring glucose concentrations while on either an intravenous or subcutaneous insulin protocol is essential. Point-of-care testing is the primary method for monitoring glucose concentrations in both critically ill and noncritically ill surgical patients and allows for adjustment of the insulin regimen. As patients move between units and to the outpatient setting, ensuring adequate follow-up is essential to maintaining control of hyperglycemia.

Central Pancreatectomy for Central Pancreatic Lesions: A Single-Institution Experience

Background

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and distal pancreatectomy are radical procedures for pancreatic lesions with high postoperative morbidity and mortality even in experienced hands. Central pancreatectomy is an alternative less radical procedure for centrally located pancreatic lesions that are benign or have a low malignant potential. It involves removing the central portion of the pancreas and has the advantage of preserving the pancreatic parenchyma, thereby decreasing the postoperative endocrine and exocrine insufficiencies.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study of six cases of central pancreatectomy in the Department of Surgical Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Government Stanley Medical College, India, between the years 2015 and 2019. All patients with lesions in the neck and proximal body of the pancreas were clinically and radiologically evaluated, and those with benign or borderline malignant lesions underwent central pancreatectomy by a standardized technique.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 27.8 years (range: 14 years - 37 years). Most of the patients were females (66.6%). The most common presenting symptom was abdominal pain, and the most common diagnosis was solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (83.3%). The mean diameter of the lesion was 6.1 cm. All patients underwent pancreaticojejunostomy of the distal stump. The median operative time and the blood loss were 310 minutes and 85 ml, respectively. Two patients developed biochemical postoperative pancreatic fistula, and in the long-term follow-up, none of them developed endocrine or exocrine insufficiency.

Conclusion

Central pancreatectomy is a safe and effective alternative for benign and low-grade lesions in the neck and body of the pancreas in which the head of the pancreas and a significant portion of the distal body and tail of the pancreas is uninvolved. Standardization of this pancreas-preserving procedure will result in better outcomes.

Outcomes of limited resection for patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND

/ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to clarify the oncological outcomes of patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) who underwent limited resection (LR).

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed the data of 110 patients with IPMN. Patients with IPMN without a history of pancreatitis who had neither tumor infiltration nor regional lymph node swelling on imaging findings underwent LR. We assessed the oncological outcomes of LR for patients with IPMN by comparing the surgical outcomes of LR and standard resection.

RESULTS

LR was performed in 50 patients (45.5%), including duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (n = 31), middle-pancreatectomy (n = 12), spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (n = 3), total parenchymal pancreatectomy (n = 3), and partial resection (n = 1). In the LR group, 18 patients had postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ IIIa. After histopathological examination, the presence of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and invasive carcinoma (IC) were observed in nine and three patients, respectively, in the LR group, and eight and 22 patients, respectively, in the standard resection group. There was a significant difference in the histopathological diagnosis of IC between the two groups (p < 0.001). Finally, in the LR group, postoperative recurrences occurred in three patients, and the 5-, 10-, and 15-year disease-specific survival rates were all 97.0%.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with IPMN judged to have no infiltrating lesions based on the detailed imaging examination, LR is acceptable and may be considered as an alternative to standard resection.

Risk factors for development of diabetes mellitus (Type 3c) after partial pancreatectomy: A systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Type 3c diabetes mellitus (T3cDM) occurring post pancreatectomy can be challenging to treat due to the frequent combination of decreased circulating levels of insulin and glucagon and concurrent exocrine insufficiency. Relatively, little is known regarding the risk factors for development of T3cDM post pancreatectomy. Our aim was to review the literature and assess what is known of the risk factors for the development of new-onset DM following partial pancreatic resection and where possible determines the incidence, time of onset and the management approach to hyperglycaemia in this context.

DESIGN

Medline and Embase databases were reviewed using specific keyword criteria. Original manuscripts published in 1990 or later included. Articles with study population <20, lacking information on new-onset DM, follow-up duration or specifically targeting rare procedures/pathology were excluded. The Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment form was applied. Results reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Pooled effect size calculated using random effects model.

PATIENTS

Thirty six articles were identified that described a total of 5636 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy, 3922 patients having distal pancreatectomy and 315 with central pancreatectomy.

RESULTS

The incidence of new-onset DM was significantly different between different types of resection from 9% to 24% after pancreaticoduodenectomy (pooled estimate 16%; 95% CI: 14%-17%), 3%-40% after distal pancreatectomy (pooled estimate 21%; 95% CI: 16%-25%) and 0%-14% after central pancreatectomy (pooled estimate 6%; 95% CI: 3%-9%). Surgical site, higher preoperative HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose and lower remnant pancreatic volume had strongest associations with new-onset DM.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review supports that risk of development of T3cDM is associated with type of pancreatic resection, lower remnant pancreatic volume and higher preoperative HbA1c.

The role of central pancreatectomy in pancreatic surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the clinical outcomes of central pancreatectomy (CP) with distal pancreatectomy (DP) and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

A systematic literature research in PubMed/Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library was performed to identify articles reporting CP from January 1983 to November 2017.

RESULTS

Fifty studies with 1305 patients undergoing CP were identified. The overall morbidity, mortality, pancreatic fistula (PF) rate and reoperation rate was 51%, 0.5%, 35% and 4% respectively. Endocrine and exocrine insufficiency were occurred in 4% and 5% of patients after CP. Meta-analysis of CP versus DP favored CP with regard to less blood loss (WMD = -143.4, P = 0.001), lower rates of endocrine (OR = 0.13, P < 0.001) and exocrine insufficiency (OR = 0.38, P < 0.001). CP was associated with higher morbidity and PF rate. In comparison with PD, CP had a lower risk of endocrine (OR = 0.14, P < 0.001) and exocrine insufficiency (OR = 0.14, P < 0.001), but a higher PF rate (OR = 1.6, P = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

CP maintains pancreatic endocrine and exocrine function better than DP and PD, but is associated with a higher PF rate.

Binding pancreaticogastrostomy anastomosis in central pancreatectomy: A single center experience

A growing number of central pancreatectomies are performed. However, reconstruction of pancreaticoenteral digestive continuity after central pancreatectomy remains debated. This study evaluates the short-term outcomes of binding pancreaticogastrostomy anastomosis in central pancreatectomy.We have reviewed our experience with 52 patients who underwent binding pancreaticogastrostomy following central pancreatectomy from February 2009 to March 2015. Indication includes 6 noninvasive intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, 11 neuroendocrine tumors, 12 solid pseudopapillary tumor, 9 serous cystadenoma, 6 mucinous cystadenoma, and 8 focal pancreatic traumas.The mortality rate was nil while the morbidity rate was 34.6%. Eighteen patients experienced complications including 6 pancreatic fistulas, 2 postpancreatectomy hemorrhages, 4 delayed gastric emptying, 1 hypostatic pneumonia, and 5 pancreatitis. The median postoperative length of hospital stay was 12 days (10 days for patients without fistula). None of the 52 patients were found to have pancreatic endocrine or exocrine insufficiency or recurrence of tumors.Central pancreatectomy with binding pancreaticogastrostomy is a useful and practicable surgical procedure for benign or borderline lesions of the pancreatic neck or proximal body.

Robotic central pancreatectomy

Central pancreatectomy (CP) is a parenchyma-sparing procedure that can be utilized in the resection of tumors of the neck or the proximal body of the pancreas. Among 872 open CP reported since 1993, the mean rate of morbidity was 43.2% and mean rate of mortality was 0.24%. The mean pancreatic fistula rate was 28%. The rate of clinically significant pancreatic fistulas with ISGPF Grades B and C was 19%. The rate of development of post-operative diabetes mellitus was at 2% and the average incidence of exocrine insufficiency experienced by patients undergoing open CP was 4.4%. Also, the mean length of hospital stay was around 15 days. In comparison, a total of 100 patients underwent either laparoscopic or robotic CP with a mean rate of morbidity of 37.3% and mean rate of mortality of 0%. Also, the mean rate of development of pancreatic fistula was 36.6%. The rate of clinically significant pancreatic fistulas with ISGPF Grades B and C was 17%. The rate of development of post-operative diabetes mellitus was at 1.5%. None of the patients included in these series developed any postoperative exocrine insufficiency. The mean length of hospital stay was around 13 days. Standard procedures such as DP and PD are associated with lower rates of short-term morbidity such as pancreatic fistula development but are also accompanied with a higher rate of long-term endocrine and exocrine insufficiency due to the significant loss of normal pancreatic parenchyma when compared to CP. It can be inferred, albeit from limited and small retrospective studies and case reports, that conventional and robotic-assisted laparoscopic approaches to CP are safe and feasible in highly specialized centers.

Evidence-based Guidelines for the Management of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency After Pancreatic Surgery

OBJECTIVE

To provide evidence-based recommendations for the management of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) after pancreatic surgery.

BACKGROUND

EPI is a common complication after pancreatic surgery but there is certain confusion about its frequency, optimal methods of diagnosis, and when and how to treat these patients.

METHODS

Eighteen multidisciplinary reviewers performed a systematic review on 10 predefined questions following the GRADE methodology. Six external expert referees reviewed the retrieved information. Members from Spanish Association of Pancreatology were invited to suggest modifications and voted for the quantification of agreement.

RESULTS

These guidelines analyze the definition of EPI after pancreatic surgery, (one question), its frequency after specific techniques and underlying disease (four questions), its clinical consequences (one question), diagnosis (one question), when and how to treat postsurgical EPI (two questions) and its impact on the quality of life (one question). Eleven statements answering those 10 questions were provided: one (9.1%) was rated as a strong recommendation according to GRADE, three (27.3%) as moderate and seven (63.6%) as weak. All statements had strong agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

EPI is a frequent but under-recognized complication of pancreatic surgery. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the definition, diagnosis, and management of EPI after pancreatic surgery.

Minimally invasive central pancreatectomy and pancreatogastrostomy: current surgical technique and outcomes

Recent improvements in imaging techniques and more frequent use of cross-sectional imaging have led to an increase in the identification of benign and low-grade lesions of the pancreas. Patients with resectable cancers are commonly treated by either a Whipple procedure or distal pancreatectomy (DP) based on the location of the tumor. Central pancreatectomy (CP) is a less commonly performed operation that has recently been utilized for resection of these now more frequently diagnosed low-grade and benign lesions located in the mid pancreas. Lesions that may have a relatively more indolent nature include branch-type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMNs), mucinous cystic neoplasms, neuroendocrine tumors, and solid pseudopapillary tumors. The goal of a CP is complete extirpation of the lesion, while preserving pancreatic parenchyma to reduce the risks of developing diabetes and exocrine insufficiency (EI). Although open CP has been shown to be safe and efficacious, the outcomes of a minimally invasive approach are still relatively underreported and therefore unknown. In this paper, we describe our surgical approach to performing a CP with an accompanying video demonstration of the key portions of the operation.

Limited surgery for benign tumours of the pancreas: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Limited surgical procedures for benign cystic neoplasms and endocrine tumours of the pancreas have the potential advantage of pancreatic tissue sparing compared to standard oncological resections.

METHODS

Searching PubMed/MedLine, Embase and Cochrane Library identified 86 full papers: 25 reporting on enucleation (EN), 38 on central pancreatectomy (CP) and 23 on duodenum-preserving total/partial pancreatic head resection (DPPHRt/p). The results are based on analysis of data of 838, 912 and 431 patients for EN, CP and DPPHRt/s, respectively.

RESULTS

The indication for EN for cystic neoplasms and neuro-endocrine tumours to EN was 20.5 and 73 %; for CP 62.9 and 31 %; and for DPPHRt/p 69.6 and 10.2%, respectively. The estimated mean tumour sizes were in EN-group 2.4 cm, in CP-group 2.9 cm and in DPPHRt/p-group 3.1 cm (DPPHRt/p vs EN, p = 0.035). Postoperative severe complications developed after EN, CP and DPPHRt/p in 9.6, 16.8 and 11.5% of patients; pancreatic fistula in 36.7, 35.2 and 20.1%; and reoperation was required in 4.7, 6.5 and 1.8 %, respectively. Hospital mortality after EN was 0.95 %; after CP 0.72%; and after DPPHRt/p 0.49%. Compared to EN and CP, DPPHRt/p exhibited significant lower frequency of reoperation (p = 0.029, p < 0.001) and lower rate of fistula (p < 0.001; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

EN, CP and DPPHRt/p applied for benign tumours are associated with low surgery-related early postoperative morbidity, a very low hospital mortality and the advantages of conservation of pancreatic functions. However, the level of evidence for EN and CP compared to standard oncological resections appears presently low. There is a high level of evidence from prospective controlled trials regarding the significant maintenance of exocrine and endocrine pancreatic functions after DPPHRt/p compared to pancreato-duodenectomy.

Factors Affecting the Development of Diabetes Mellitus After Pancreatic Resection

OBJECTIVES

Glucose homeostasis changes after pancreatic resection are not well understood. We aimed to identify the incidence of, and risk factors for, a change in glucose homeostasis in patients who underwent pancreatectomy for benign pancreatic tumors.

METHODS

Clinical and pathological data from 229 patients were collected prospectively and analyzed retrospectively. The pancreas resection volume was calculated by computed tomography volumetry.

RESULTS

After pancreatectomy, newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) occurred in 52 patients (22.7%) and impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance occurred in 74 patients (32.3%). The incidence of DM was highest for patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy (DP) (30.5%). Patients in the DP group had a significantly increased rate of DM as the pancreatic resection volume (in milliliters) and resected volume ratio (in percent) increased. A high body mass index and older age were significant risk factors for the development of DM by multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The resection volume of the pancreas is associated with a change in glucose homeostasis after pancreatectomy. Therefore, preservation of the pancreatic parenchyma is important to minimize the onset of DM in patients with a high pancreatic resected volume ratio (>35.6%) in DP, a high body mass index, or in old age.

Parenchyma-sparing pancreatectomies for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

Parenchyma-sparing pancreatectomy, including enucleation and central pancreatectomy, has been investigated as an alternative to standard resection (pancreaticoduodenectomy or left/distal pancreatectomy) for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). In selected patients, with small (<2 cm) and low-grade tumors, PSP are associated with excellent both overall and disease-free survivals. These procedures are associated with an increased postoperative morbidity but an excellent long-term postoperative pancreatic function. Therefore, they should be considered as a valid therapeutic option in selected well-differentiated PNET.

Laparoscopic central pancreatectomy: Our technique and long-term results in 14 patients

INTRODUCTION

Conventional pancreatic resections may be unnecessary for benign tumours or for tumours of low malignant potential located in the neck and body of pancreas. Such extensive resections can place the patient at increased risk of developing postoperative exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. Central pancreatectomy is a plausible surgical option for the management of tumours located in these locations. Laparoscopic approach seems appropriate for such small tumours situated deep in the retroperitoneum.

AIMS

To assess the technical feasibility, safety and long-term results of laparoscopic central pancreatectomy in patients with benign and low malignant potential tumours involving the neck and body of pancreas.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

This study was an observational study which reports a single-centre experience with laparoscopic central pancreatectomy over a 9-year period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

14 patients underwent laparoscopic central pancreatectomy from October 2004 to September 2013. These included patients with tumours located in the neck and body of pancreas that were radiologically benign-looking tumours of less than 3 cm in size.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

The statistical analysis was done using GraphPad Prism software.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 48.93 years. The mean operative time was 239.7 min. Mean blood loss was 153.2 ml. Mean postoperative ICU stay was 1.2 days and overall mean hospital stay was 8.07 days. There were no mortalities and no major postoperative complications. Margins were negative in all cases and with a median follow-up of 44 months, there was no recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic central pancreatectomy is a feasible procedure with acceptable morbidity. In the long term, there were no recurrences and pancreatic function was well preserved.

Central Pancreatectomy as a Good Solution in Frantz Tumor Resection: A Case Report

Solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas located in the head or body are a challenging clinical problem because they usually demand extensive surgical procedures, and in most reported cases pancreaticoduodenectomy is the operation of choice in such a location. An alternative method of surgery in precisely selected patients is a procedure known as central pancreatectomy. The authors present the case of a 13-year-old girl with a 5 cm tumor located in the body of the pancreas. The favorable anatomical location of the tumor suggested central pancreatic resection. The tumor was excised with 1 cm oncologic margins from both sides, and the distal remnant of the pancreas was protected with a Roux-en-Y loop. In the postoperative period the patient required reoperation because of intensive bleeding in the resection site but the duodenal loop was saved and the patient protected from biliary tract reconstruction and exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. Progress in pancreatic surgery, especially in children, allows less radical options for the reason that preservation of endocrine and exocrine function is very important and protects them, especially from insulin-dependent diabetes in the future.

Extended distal pancreatectomy for advanced pancreatic neck cancer

Backgrounds/Aims

We investigated the clinical application of extended distal pancreatectomy in patients with pancreatic neck cancer accompanied by distal pancreatic atrophy. In this study, we have emphasized on the technical aspects of using the linear stapling device for a bulky target organ.

Methods

From March 2010 to September 2013, 46 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, who underwent pancreatic resection with radical intent at our institute, were reviewed retrospectively. Among them, three patients (6.5%) underwent extended distal pancreatectomy. A linear stapling device and vise-grip locking pliers were used for en bloc resection of the distal pancreas, first duodenal portion, and distal common bile duct. The results were compared with those after standard pancreatectomy.

Results

All three patients presented with jaundice, and the ratio of pancreatic duct to parenchymal thickness of the pancreatic body was greater than 0.5. Grade A pancreatic fistula developed in all of the cases, but none of these fistulae were lethal. Pathological staging was T3N1M0 in all of the patients. The postoperative daily serum glucose fluctuations and insulin requirements were comparable to those in patients who received pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy. At the last follow-up, two patients were alive with liver metastasis at 4 and 10 months postoperatively, respectively, and one patient died of liver metastasis at 5 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

While the prognosis of advanced pancreatic neck adenocarcinoma is still dismal, extended distal pancreatectomy is a valid treatment option, especially when there is atrophy of the distal pancreas. Also, the procedure is technically feasible, and further refinement is necessary to improve patient survival.

Benign cystic neoplasm and endocrine tumours of the pancreas--when and how to operate--an overview

BACKGROUND

The recent evolution of limited local operative procedures for benign pancreatic lesions shifted surgical treatment options to the application of local techniques, although major resections of pancreatic head and left resection are still the standard.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the level of evidence of tumour enucleation (EN), pancreatic middle segment resection (PMSR) and duodenum preserving total/subtotal pancreatic head resection (DPPHRt/s), we focus based on present knowledge on indication to surgical treatment evaluating the questions, when and how to operate.

RESULTS

Tumour enucleation is recommended for all symptomatic neuro-endocrine tumours with size up to 2-3 cm and non-adherence to pancreatic main-ducts. EN has been applied predominantly in neuro-endocrine tumours and less frequently in cystic neoplasms. 20% of enucleation are performed as minimal invasive laparascopic procedure. Surgery related severe post-operative complications with the need of re-intervention are observed in about 11%, pancreatic fistula in 33%. The major advantage of EN are low procedure related early post-operative morbidity and a very low hospital mortality. PMSR is applied in two thirds for symptomatic cystic neoplasm and in one third for neuro-endocrine tumours. The high level of 33% pancreatic fistula and severe post-operative complications of 18% is related to management of proximal pancreatic stump. DPPHRt/s is used in 70% for symptomatic cystic neoplasms, for lesions with risk for malignancy and in less than 10% for neuro-endocrine tumours. DPPHRt with segment resection of peripapillary duodenum and intra-pancreatic common bile duct has been applied in one third of patients and in two thirds by complete preservation of duodenum and common bile duct. The level of evidence for EN and PMSR is low because of retrospective data evaluation and absence of RCT results. For DPPHR, 7 prospective, controlled studies underline the advantages compared to partial pancreaticoduodenectomy.

CONCLUSION

The application of tumour enucleation, pancreatic middle segment resection and duodenum preserving subtotal or total pancreatic head resection are associated with low level surgery related early post-operative complications and a very low hospital mortality. The major advantage of the limited procedures is preservation of exo- and endocrine pancreatic functions.

Systematic review of central pancreatectomy and meta-analysis of central versus distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Central pancreatectomy (CP) is a parenchyma-sparing surgical procedure that enables the removal of benign and/or low-grade malignant lesions from the neck and proximal body of the pancreas. The aim of this review was to evaluate the short- and long-term surgical results of CP from all published studies, and the results of comparative studies of CP versus distal pancreatectomy (DP).

METHODS

Eligible studies published between 1988 and 2010 were reviewed systematically. Comparisons between CP and DP were pooled and analysed by meta-analytical techniques using random- or fixed-effects models, as appropriate.

RESULTS

Ninety-four studies, involving 963 patients undergoing CP, were identified. Postoperative morbidity and pancreatic fistula rates were 45·3 and 40·9 per cent respectively. Endocrine and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency was reported in 5·0 and 9·9 per cent of patients. The overall mortality rate was 0·8 per cent. Compared with DP, CP had a higher postoperative morbidity rate and a higher incidence of pancreatic fistula, but a lower risk of endocrine insufficiency (relative risk (RR) 0·22, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·14 to 0·35; P < 0·001). The risk of exocrine failure was also lower after CP, although this was not significant (RR 0·59, 0·32 to 1·07; P = 0·082).

CONCLUSION

CP is a safe procedure with good long-term functional reserve. In situations where DP represents an alternative, CP is associated with a slightly higher risk of early complications.

Robotic-assisted minimally invasive central pancreatectomy: technique and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Central pancreatectomy is a definitive treatment for low-grade tumors of the pancreatic neck that preserves pancreatic and splenic function at the potential expense of postoperative pancreatic fistula. We analyzed outcomes after robot-assisted central pancreatectomy (RACP) to reexamine the risk-benefit profile in the era of minimally invasive surgery.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of nine RACP performed between August 2009 through June 2010 at a single institution.

RESULTS

The average age of the cohort was 64 (range 18-75 years) with six women (67 %). Indications for surgery included: five benign cystic neoplasm and four pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. Median operative time was 425 min (range 305-506 min) with 190 ml median blood loss (range 50-350 ml) and one conversion to open due to poor visualization. Median tumor size was 3.0 cm (range 1.9-6.0 cm); all patients achieved R0 status. Pancreaticogastrostomy was performed in seven cases and pancreaticojejunostomy in two. The median length of hospital stay was 10 days (range 7-19). Two clinically significant pancreatic fistulae occurred with one requiring percutaneous drainage. No patients exhibited worsening diabetes or exocrine insufficiency at the 30-day postoperative visit.

CONCLUSIONS

RACP can be performed with safety and oncologic outcomes equivalent to published open series. Although the rate of pancreatic fistula was high, only 22 % had clinically significant events, and none developed worsening pancreatic endocrine or exocrine dysfunction.

Middle segmental pancreatectomy: A safe and organ-preserving option for benign and low-grade malignant lesions

AIM: To study the feasibility and safety of middle segmental pancreatectomy (MSP) compared with pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and extended distal pancreatectomy (EDP).

METHODS: We studied retrospectively 36 cases that underwent MSP, 44 patients who underwent PD, and 26 who underwent EDP with benign or low-grade malignant lesions in the mid-portion of the pancreas, between April 2003 and December 2009 in Ruijin Hospital. The perioperative outcomes and long-term outcomes of MSP were compared with those of EDP and PD. Perioperative outcomes included operative time, intraoperative hemorrhage, transfusion, pancreatic fistula, intra-abdominal abscess/infection, postoperative bleeding, reoperation, mortality, and postoperative hospital time. Long-term outcomes, including tumor recurrence, new-onset diabetes mellitus (DM), and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, were evaluated.

RESULTS: Intraoperative hemorrhage was 316.1 ± 309.6, 852.2 ± 877.8 and 526.9 ± 414.5 mL for the MSP, PD and EDP groups, respectively (P < 0.05). The mean postoperative daily fasting blood glucose level was significantly lower in the MSP group than in the EDP group (6.3 ± 1.5 mmol/L vs 7.3 ± 1.5 mmol/L, P < 0.05). The rate of pancreatic fistula was higher in the MSP group than in the PD group (42% vs 20.5%, P = 0.039), all of the fistulas after MSP corresponded to grade A (9/15) or B (6/15) and were sealed following conservative treatment. There was no significant difference in the mean postoperative hospital stay between the MSP group and the other two groups. After a mean follow-up of 44 mo, no tumor recurrences were found, only one patient (2.8%) in the MSP group vs five (21.7%) in the EDP group developed new-onset insulin-dependent DM postoperatively (P = 0.029). Moreover, significantly fewer patients in the MSP group than in the PD (0% vs 33.3%, P < 0.001) and EDP (0% vs 21.7%, P = 0.007) required enzyme substitution.

CONCLUSION: MSP is a safe and organ-preserving option for benign or low-grade malignant lesions in the neck and proximal body of the pancreas.

Central pancreatectomy versus spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy: a comparative analysis of early and late postoperative outcomes

BACKGROUND/AIM

The aim of the present study is to compare the postoperative and long-term outcomes of central pancreatectomy (CP) and spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP).

METHODS

Clinical, pathological and long-term data were compared between 22 patients who underwent CP and 25 patients who underwent SPDP (2002-2012).

RESULTS

The median length of resected pancreas was 8.5 cm in the SPDP group and 5 cm in the CP group (p < 0.001). The median estimated blood loss was significantly lower in the CP group (p = 0.019). Morbidity was 50% for CPs and 40% for SPDPs (p = 0.564). The rate of pancreatic fistulae was 36% for CPs and 40% for SPDPs (p = 0.530). The rate of new-onset diabetes was nil in the successful CP group and 16% in the SPDP group (p = 0.111).

CONCLUSION

Morbidity and pancreatic fistula rates are not higher after CP when compared to SPDP. The loss of normal pancreatic tissue is significantly lower for CP, and thus there is potentially better preservation of the pancreatic endocrine functions. CP should be considered only in selected cases when preservation of the pancreas is of utmost importance, especially for lesions situated at the level of the pancreatic neck.

Parenchyma-sparing resections for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

BACKGROUND

Parenchyma-sparing pancreatectomy (PSP), including enucleation and central pancreatectomy, has been investigated as an alternative to standard resection for pancreatic endocrine neoplasm, but the benefit/risk of these procedures remains little known.

METHODS

From 1998 to 2010, among 197 patients operated for well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, 67 underwent PSP (45 enucleations and 22 central pancreatectomies) and 66 standard resections (35 pancreaticoduodenectomies and 31 distal pancreatectomies) for a tumor below 4 cm, without synchronous distant metastasis. Groups were compared regarding postoperative morbidity, mortality, long-term pancreatic function, and survival calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Tumors operated by PSP had a median size of 15 mm, were mainly incidentally diagnosed (n = 46, 69 %), and nonfunctioning (n = 55, 82 %). Overall morbidity rate was higher after PSP than standard resection (SR) (76 vs 58 %, p = 0.0028), including more frequent pancreatic fistulas (69 vs 42 %, p = 0.003). Postoperative diabetes was less frequent following PSP than pancreaticoduodenectomy (5 vs 21 %; p = 0.022) but equivalent to the one observed after distal pancreatectomy (4 %, p = 1). Exocrine insufficiency was significantly less frequent after PSP than SR (3 vs 32 %; p < 0.0001). The overall and recurrence-free 5-year survival after PSP for nonfunctioning tumors was 96 and 98 %, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In selected patients, with small and low-grade tumors, PSP are associated with excellent overall and recurrence-free survivals. These procedures are associated with an increased postoperative morbidity but an excellent postoperative pancreatic function. Therefore, they should be considered as a valid therapeutic option in selected well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

Impact of Pancreatic Cancer and Subsequent Resection on Glycemic Control in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients

The incidence of new onset or worsening diabetes is surprisingly low in patients after partial pancreatectomy for cancer, leading us to question what factors predict diminished glycemic control in those undergoing resection. All patients undergoing pancreatectomy for cancer at a large, rural university teaching hospital between 1996 and 2010 were identified. The incidence of new onset, or worsening, existing diabetes was determined based on pre and postoperative medication requirement. Univariate analysis was undertaken to identify factors that predict worsened glycemic control. One hundred and one (1 total, 79 Whipple, 21 distal) patients were identified, 41 per cent of which had preexisting diabetes. Nearly half of existing diabetics manifested an increased medication requirement prior to their cancer diagnosis. New onset diabetes occurred in 20 per cent of postoperative patients. Of established diabetics, 34 per cent had either improved glycemic control (9/41) or were cured (5/41) despite the reduction of islet cell mass that occurred with surgery. On univariate analysis, only prolonged hospitalization was associated with worsened glycemic control. Diminished glycemic control is a frequent presenting symptom of pancreatic cancer. Worsened or new onset diabetes is associated with length of stay, which can be influenced by a number of factors including complications and comorbidities.

Pancreatogenic diabetes after pancreatic resection

The loss of pancreatic parenchyma resulting from pancreatic resection causes an extreme disruption of glucose homeostasis known as pancreatogenic diabetes. This form of glucose intolerance is different from the other forms of diabetes mellitus in that affected individuals suffer frequent episodes of iatrogenic hypoglycemia. The development of sophisticated surgical procedures, improved postoperative care, and the capacity for early diagnosis of disease has prolonged life expectancy after pancreatic resection. For this reason, pancreatogenic diabetes is now attracting attention as the primary factor influencing quality of life in patients who have undergone this procedure. The incidence of new-onset diabetes mellitus after pancreatic resection increases as the follow-up period after surgery becomes longer and is related to the progression of underlying disease, the type of surgery, and the extent of resection. The pathophysiology of pancreatogenic diabetes is related to pancreatic hormone deficiency and the altered responses of the liver and peripheral organs to lower than normal hormone levels. Hyperglycemia occurs when the amount of insulin produced or administered is insufficient because of unsuppressed hepatic glucose production secondary to a deficiency in pancreatic polypeptide. In contrast, patients lapse into hypoglycemia when insulin is barely excessive because of enhanced peripheral insulin sensitivity and glucagon deficiency. Nutritional state, pancreatic exocrine function and intestinal function also affect glycemic control. Insulin replacement is considered to be the main treatment option for insulin dependent pancreatogenic diabetes. Pancreatic polypeptide replacement and islet autotransplantation have potential as new approaches to treating patients with pancreatogenic diabetes after pancreatic resection. and IAP.

[Blood glucose control and risk of progressing to a diabetic state during clinical follow up after cephalic duodenopancreatectomy]

INTRODUCTION

Pancreatic resection carries a theoretical risk of developing diabetes; however few studies have demonstrated the effect of a cephalic duodenopancreatectomy on post-operative blood glucose control.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An analysis was made of the post-operative clinical follow up of 70 patients subjected to a cephalic duodenopancreatectomy in our Hospital between March 1993 and November 2009. The surgical indication was due to primary pancreatic disease in 30 patients (21 adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, 6 chronic pancreatitis, 1 endocrine carcinoma, 1 cystadenoma and 1 complicated pseudocyst). The pancreas was not affected in the other 40 patients (24 ampullary carcinomas, 11 cholangiocarcinomas, 3 duodenal carcinomas, 1 papillary adenoma and 1 adenomatous hyperplasia of the bile duct). Data on the pre- and post-operative diabetic state were collected.

RESULTS

Before resection, 49 patients (70.0%) had a normal glucose without the need for treatment. Seventeen patients required oral diabetic treatment, 3 subcutaneous insulin, and only one was treated by diet. The duodenopancreatectomy worsened glucose control in 47.1% of the patients (23 of the previously non-diabetics and 10 of those treated with oral diabetics). Glucose control was worse when the surgical indication was due to primary involvement of the gland (progression of 63.3%) compared with patients with disease (progression of 35.0%) (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that resection of the head of the pancreas favours the appearance of post-operative diabetes, particularly when the surgical indication is due to primary pancreatic involvement.

Better preservation of endocrine function after central versus distal pancreatectomy for mid-gland lesions

BACKGROUND

Traditional resections for benign and low-grade malignant neoplasms of the mid pancreas result in loss of normal parenchyma that can cause pancreatic endocrine and exocrine insufficiency. Central pancreatectomy (CP) is a parenchyma-sparing option for such lesions. This study evaluates a single institution's experience with CP and compares outcomes with distal pancreatectomy (DP).

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data on CP patients from 1997 through 2009 and evaluated outcomes. In a subset of 50 patients, we performed a matched-pairs analysis to directly compare the short- and long-term outcomes of CP and DP.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients underwent CP with a median operating room time of 254 minutes. Overall morbidity was 41.1% with pancreatic fistula in 20.5%. Mortality was 0%. There were no differences in fistula, morbidity, and mortality rates between the CP and DP groups. The CP group had resected for smaller lesions. CP patients had a lower rate of new-onset and worsening diabetes than DP patients (14% vs 46%; P = .003). Of new-onset and worsening diabetics, only 1 CP patient required insulin compared with 14 DP patients (P = .002).

CONCLUSION

CP is safe and effective for select neoplasms of the mid pancreas. Patients undergoing CP have markedly decreased insulin requirements compared with DP patients.

One hundred thirty resections for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor: evaluating the impact of minimally invasive and parenchyma-sparing techniques

BACKGROUND

Increasingly, surgeons apply minimally invasive and parenchyma-sparing techniques to the management of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of these approaches on patient outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data on patients with PNET and compared perioperative and pathologic variables. Survival was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Factors influencing survival were evaluated using a Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty patients underwent resection for PNET. Traditional resections included 43 pancreaticoduodenectomies (PD), 38 open distal pancreatectomies (DP), and four total pancreatectomies. Minimally invasive and parenchyma-sparing resections included 25 laparoscopic DP, 11 central pancreatectomies, five enucleations, three partial pancreatectomies, and one laparoscopic-assisted PD. Compared to traditional resections, the minimally invasive and parenchyma-sparing resections had shorter hospital stays. By univariate analysis of neuroendocrine carcinoma, liver metastases and positive resection margins correlated with poor survival. There was an increase in minimally invasive or parenchyma-sparing resections over the study period with no differences in morbidity, mortality, or survival.

CONCLUSION

In this series, there has been a significant increase in minimally invasive and parenchyma-sparing techniques for PNET. This shift did not increase morbidity or compromise survival. In addition, minimally invasive and parenchyma-sparing operations yielded shorter hospital stays.

Robot-assisted laparoscopic middle pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Middle pancreatectomy has been accepted as a valid surgical alternative to more extensive standard resections for the treatment of benign central pancreatic tumors. In this article, we describe a new minimally invasive approach to this procedure, using a robot-assisted laparoscopic technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From May 2004 to October 2005, 3 patients (2 female and 1 male), with a mean age of 52 years (range, 44-68), underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic middle pancreatectomies at the Department of General Surgery of Misericordia Hospital in Grosseto, Italy. Two of the patients had symptomatic serous cystadenomas, and 1 patient had a mucinous cystadenoma, which was discovered incidentally. The da Vinci((R)) Surgical System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA) was used to perform the main steps of the intervention. All patients underwent a pancreaticogastrostomy for pancreaticoenteric reconstruction to the distal stump.

RESULTS

The mean operative time was 320 minutes (range, 270-380). Mean blood loss was 233 mL (range, 100-400). There were no mortalities. One patient developed a postoperative pancreatic fistula, which was managed conservatively. The postoperative hospital stay was 9 days for 2 patients and 27 days for the third patient. No endocrine or exocrine deficiencies were observed in the patients during a mean follow-up of 44 months (range, 38-48).

CONCLUSIONS

Robot-assisted laparoscopic middle pancreatectomy presents an interesting, less-invasive option for resection of benign tumors of the neck and proximal body of the pancreas. In benign disease, it allows for the preservation of functional pancreatic parenchyma and, subsequently, reduced operative trauma.

Parenchyma-sparing pancreatectomies for benign or border-line tumors of the pancreas

Standard pancreatic resections, such as pancreaticoduodenectomy, distal pancreatectomy, or total pancreatectomy, result in an important loss of normal pancreatic parenchyma and may cause impairment of exocrine and endocrine function. Whilst these procedures are mandatory for malignant tumors, they seem to be too extensive for benign or border-line tumors, especially in patients with a long life expectancy. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in parenchyma-sparing pancreatic surgery with the aim of achieving better functional results without compromising oncological radicality in patients with benign, border-line or low-grade malignant tumors. Several limited resections have been introduced for isolated or multiple pancreatic lesions, depending on the location of the tumor: central pancreatectomy, duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection with or without segmental duodenectomy, inferior head resection, dorsal pancreatectomy, excavation of the pancreatic head, middle-preserving pancreatectomy, and other multiple segmental resections. All these procedures are technically feasible in experienced hands, with very low mortality, although with high morbidity rate when compared to standard procedures. Pancreatic endocrine and exocrine function is better preserved with good quality of life in most of the patients, and tumor recurrence is uncommon. Careful patient selection and expertise in pancreatic surgery are crucial to achieve the best results.

Traumatic Transection of Pancreas at the Neck: Feasibility of Parenchymal Preserving Strategy

BACKGROUND

To assess the feasibility and safety of a pancreas preserving operative technique in the management of isolated complete pancreatic neck transection following blunt abdominal trauma.

METHODS

Two patients with isolated blunt fracture of the pancreatic neck underwent pancreas preserving procedure comprising of oversewing of the proximal pancreas and Roux-en-Y pancreatico jejunostomy to the distal remnant. A feeding jejunostomy tube was placed for postoperative nutritional support in these patients. Both patients received subcutaneous octreotide 300 µg/day.

RESULTS

Their ages ranged from 15 years to 20 years, mode of injury was bicycle handle-bar injury (n = 2). Both had pancreatic transection at neck in the line of superior mesenteric vessels. One had ascites. These patients had pancreas parenchyma preserving surgery - internal drainage of the left remnant in a Roux-en-Y jejunal loop. The postoperative course was uneventful in these and both are well on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreas preserving strategy - suture of head side of pancreas and an internal drainage of left remnant with a Roux-en-Y jejunal loop is feasible and safe and should be considered in selected cases. Substantial amount of normal pancreatic parenchyma is preserved.

Middle pancreatectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy: a technique, operative outcomes, and long-term pancreatic function

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Middle pancreatectomy is infrequently performed in selected patients. The rationale is to preserve pancreatic function. This study evaluates a technique, operative outcomes, and long-term exocrine and endocrine pancreatic function of the middle pancreatectomy procedure.

METHODS

Nineteen patients who underwent middle pancreatectomy between 1996 and 2008 were reviewed. Indications included eight intraductal papillary-mucinous neoplasms, five endocrine tumors, one serous and two mucinous cystadenomas, and three other benign lesions. Reconstruction of the distal pancreatic remnant was performed with pancreaticogastrostomy using the duct-to-mucosa method in 16 patients and with Roux-en-Y end-to-end pancreaticojejunostomy in 3 patients.

RESULTS

Median operative time was 215 min. Perioperative mortality was nil. Morbidity was 53%, including 9 (47%) pancreatic fistulas. One patient with hemorrhage, complicated by a pancreatic fistula was successfully treated by endovascular embolization. No patients required postsurgical reoperation. Only one patient had clinical exocrine insufficiency requiring pancreatic enzyme supplementation. None developed postresection new-onset insulin-dependent diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Middle pancreatectomy with pancreaticogastrostomy is feasible and reasonable technique. Although the incidence of pancreatic fistula formation may still be higher compared to conventional resection, long-term exocrine, and endocrine pancreatic function may be preserved. Thus, careful patient selection and experienced pancreatic surgeons in high-volume centers are of great importance.

Middle pancreatectomy for pancreatic neoplasms

BACKGROUND

A middle pancreatectomy (MP) is a parenchyma-preserving procedure for benign or low-malignant neoplasms in the neck or body of the pancreas that reduces long-term endocrine and exocrine insufficiency. MP requires the handling of 2 (distal and proximal) pancreatic remnants, and therefore, the higher rates of pancreatic fistula and morbidity may occur after MP rather than after standard pancreatectomies, such as for a pancreaticoduodenectomy and distal pancreatectomy. Though there have so far been few reports regarding a high number of series in MP as opposed to standard pancreatic resections, recently reports describing more than 50 case outcomes of MP were published.

METHODS

A literature search, which examined articles related to MP, was performed using the PubMed database. Data were compiled to generate conglomerate results of mortality and morbidity rates, and the long-term pancreatic functional insufficiency and recurrence after MP.

RESULTS

The mortality rates varied from 0 to 3%, and the morbidity from 13 to 62%. The rates of pancreatic fistula in more than 50 cases of MP varied from 8 to 30%. The rates of endocrine and exocrine insufficiency were very low (range, 0-9% and 0-8%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

MP is a safe procedure for the treatment of benign or low-grade malignant neoplasms in the pancreatic neck or body, and in this procedure, the postoperative endocrine and exocrine functions are well preserved.

Central pancreatectomy without anastomosis

Background

Central pancreatectomy has a unique application for lesions in the neck of the pancreas. It preserves the distal pancreas and its endocrine functions. It also preserves the spleen.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of 10 patients who underwent central pancreatectomy without pancreatico-enteric anastomosis between October 2005 and May 2009. The surgical indications, operative outcomes, and pathologic findings were analyzed.

Results

All 10 lesions were in the neck of the pancreas and included: 2 branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), a mucinous cyst, a lymphoid cyst, 5 neuroendocrine tumors, and a clear cell adenoma.

Conclusion

Central pancreatectomy without pancreatico-enteric anastomosis for lesions in the neck and proximal pancreas is a safe and effective procedure. Morbidity is low because there is no anastomosis. Long term endocrine and exocrine function has been maintained.

Middle pancreatectomy: safety and long-term results

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and distal pancreatectomy for lesions of the neck or body of the pancreas sacrifice a large amount of normal pancreatic tissue. Middle pancreatectomy (MP) is a parenchyma sparing technique that reduces the risk of postoperative endocrine and exocrine insufficiency. This study aims to evaluate the perioperative and long-term results of MP and to clarify whether MP can be performed with outcomes comparable with traditional pancreatectomies.

METHOD

Twenty-six patients who underwent MP for benign or low-grade malignant tumor of the pancreas between 1991 and 2006 at the Department of Surgery II, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, were identified. Their outcomes were compared with 2 separate control groups, 35 left-side pancreatectomies (LSP) and 60 right-side pancreatectomies (RSP).

RESULTS

The mean operating time of the MP group was 295 minutes, which was significantly shorter than that for RSP (P=.0001). The rate of pancreatic fistula formation was higher in the MP group than in the 2 control groups, although the differences did not reach statistical significance. After a mean follow-up of 71 months, postoperative endocrine function was equivalent to the pre-operative values in the MP group, and none of the patients developed diabetes mellitus postoperatively. Only 1 patient in the MP group required enzyme substitution postoperatively for exocrine insufficiency. The MP group was inclined to be superior to the other 2 control groups in terms of postoperative nutritional status.

CONCLUSION

Middle pancreatectomy is a reasonable technique that is indicated for selected patients with benign or low malignant tumors in the neck and body of the pancreas. Middle pancreatectomy seems to result in better preservation of exocrine and endocrine functions as well as in better nutritional status postoperatively.

Secondary diabetes associated with principal endocrinopathies: the impact of new treatment modalities

The secondary occurrence of type 2 diabetes with various hormonal diseases (e.g. pituitary, adrenal and/or thyroid diseases) is a recurrent observation. Indeed, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and overt diabetes mellitus are frequently associated with acromegaly and hypercortisolism (Cushing syndrome). The increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality associated with acromegaly and Cushing syndrome may partly be a consequence of increased insulin resistance that normally accompanies hormone excess. Acromegalic patients are insulin resistant, both in the liver and in the periphery, displaying hyperinsulinemia and increased glucose turnover in the basal post-absorptive states. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus and that of IGT in acromegaly is reported to range 16-56%, whereas the degree of glucose tolerance seems correlated with circulating growth hormone (GH) levels, age, and disease duration. Moreover, a family history of diabetes and concomitant presence of arterial hypertension have been found to predispose to diabetes as well. GH has physiological effects on glucose metabolism, stimulating gluconeogenesis and lipolysis, which results in increased blood glucose and free fatty acid levels. Conversely, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I) enhances insulin sensitivity primarily on skeletal muscles. However, in acromegaly, increased IGF-I levels are unable to counteract the insulin-resistance status determined by GH excess. Therapy with somatostatin analogues (SSAs) induce control of GH and IGF-I excess in the majority of patients, but their inhibitory effect on pancreatic insulin secretion might complicate the overall effect of this treatment on glucose tolerance. Hypercortisolism produces visceral obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia that together with hypertension, hypercoagulability, and ventricular morphologic and functional abnormalities increase cardiovascular risk, and persist up to 5 years after resolution of hypercortisolism. Hypercortisolism leads to hyperglycaemia and reduced glucose tolerance, determines insulin resistance, stimulates hepatic gluconeogenesis and glicogenolisis. In Cushing syndrome the prevalence of diabetes varies between 20 and 50%, but probably this prevalence is underestimated, as not always an oral glucose tolerance test is performed in the presence of an apparently normal fasting glycaemia. Again, disease duration, rather than hormone levels, seems to be the major determinant in the occurrence of systemic complications in Cushing syndrome. Due to the impact they have on mortality and morbidity in both acromegaly and Cushing syndrome, these complications should be treated aggressively. In patients with neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) the occurrence of altered glucose tolerance may be due to a decreased insulin secretion, like it happens in patients who underwent pancreatic surgery and in those with pheochromocytoma, or to an altered counterbalance between hormones, such as in patients with glucagonoma and somatostatinoma. Moreover, SSAs represent a valid therapeutic choice in the symptomatic treatment of NETs, and also in this case the medical therapy of the primary disease, may have a significant impact on the prevalence of glucose metabolism imbalance. In thyroid disorders, an abnormal glucose tolerance may be principally encountered in hyperthyroidism. The pathogenesis is complex and scant data on prevalence and severity are found in the literature. Adequate treatment for glucose imbalance is mandatory in these peculiar patients in line with the American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes consensus statement. In particular, since traditional insulins have two features that may complicate therapy (absorption profiles, delayed onset of action and peak activity), the new insulin analogues could be of particular interest in the management of the secondary diabetes associated with endocrinopathies, considering the frailty of these patients. Indeed, it has been demonstrated that insulin glargine, given once daily, reduces the risk of hypoglycaemia compared with other formulations, and can facilitate a more aggressive insulin treatment in this class of patients.

Comparison of central and extended left pancreatectomy for lesions of the pancreatic neck

BACKGROUND

Central pancreatectomy (CP) is a parenchyma-sparing alternative to extended left pancreatectomy (ELP) for tumors of the pancreatic neck. We compared short- and long-term outcomes for the two approaches.

METHODS

Patients who underwent CP or ELP from 2000-2007 for neoplasms of the neck were identified. Charts were reviewed for patient, treatment, and outcome data. Long-term and quality-of-life (QoL) data were gathered through Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved telephone interviews and questionnaires European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30, and QLQ-PAN26.

RESULTS

31 patients were identified; 13 underwent CP and 18 underwent ELP. Median follow-up was 29 months (range 5-90). Groups did not differ in age, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class, or preexisting diabetes mellitus (DM). CP patients had less gland resected (5.7 +/- 2.1 cm versus 10.8 +/- 2.8 cm) and lower postoperative mean blood glucose levels (120 +/- 15 mg/dl versus 136 +/- 24 mg/dl). CP patients experienced more complications (92% versus 39%), but no significant difference in major complications (38%, CP versus 17%, ELP; P = 0.17) or hospital stay (9 +/- 3 days, CP versus 7.5 +/- 4 days, ELP). There was one perioperative death in the CP group, unrelated to surgical technique. Questionnaire analysis showed no differences in functional or symptom scales. New-onset exocrine insufficiency was not significantly different between the groups (10%, CP versus 27%, ELP; P = 0.62), but the ELP group had a higher rate of new-onset DM (57% versus 11%; P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

CP is associated with more complications than ELP, but no difference in long-term QoL. Due to the lower incidence of postoperative DM, CP can be recommended for healthy patients with indolent tumors of the pancreatic neck.