Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Perioperative Outcomes after Resection for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

A single-center prospective analysis of the impact of glucose metabolism on pancreatic fistula onset after pancreaticoduodenectomy for periampullary tumors

BACKGROUND

Glucose impairment notably affects the postoperative course of gastrointestinal surgeries. However, evidence on its impact on clinically relevant pancreatic fistulas(CR-POPFs) after pancreaticoduodenectomy(PD) is lacking. This study evaluates if and how preoperative glucose metabolism affects the development of CR-POPF after PD.

METHODS

One hundred and ten consecutive PDs were included. Patients underwent preoperative metabolic profiling using the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test(OGTT) and the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp procedure. Accordingly, patients were categorized as normal glucose tolerant (NGT), impaired glucose tolerant (IGT), diabetic (DM), and longstanding-DM. Receiver operating characteristics(ROC) analyses were performed to determine the values of metabolic features in prediction of CR-POPF.

RESULTS

The CR-POPF rate was 36.3 ​%(40 patients). NGT patients had a higher CR-POPF rate (51.7 ​%) compared to IGT(45.2 ​%), DM (15.8 ​%), and longstanding-DM (25.8 ​%) (p ​= ​0.03). CR-POPF patients had lower median fasting glucose levels (p ​= ​0.01) and higher c-peptide values at all OGTT time points (p ​< ​0.05). Fasting glucose and c-peptide levels had high diagnostic accuracy for CR-POPF (AUC>0.8) and were independent risk factors for CR-POPF (OR: 24.7[95%CI: 3.7-165.3] for fasting glucose; OR: 19.9[95%CI: 3.2-125.3] for c-peptide).

CONCLUSION

Normoglycemia and normal beta cell function may be risk factors for CR-POPF after PD. Fasting glucose and c-peptide levels effectively predicted CR-POPF development following PD.

CLINICALTRIALS GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT02175459.

Five-year recurrence/survival after pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma: does pre-existing diabetes matter? Results from the Recurrence After Whipple's (RAW) study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has a complex relationship with pancreatic cancer. This study examines the impact of preoperative DM, both recent-onset and pre-existing, on long-term outcomes following pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

METHODS

Data were extracted from the Recurrence After Whipple's (RAW) study, a multi-centre cohort of PD for pancreatic head malignancy (2012-2015). Recurrence and five-year survival rates of patients with DM were compared to those without, and subgroup analysis performed to compare patients with recent-onset DM (less than one year) to patients with established DM.

RESULTS

Out of 758 patients included, 187 (24.7%) had DM, of whom, 47 of the 187 (25.1%) had recent-onset DM. There was no difference in the rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula (DM: 5.9% vs no DM 9.8%; p = 0.11), five-year survival (DM: 24.1% vs no DM: 22.9%; p = 0.77) or five-year recurrence (DM: 71.7% vs no DM: 67.4%; p = 0.32). There was also no difference between patients with recent-onset DM and patients with established DM in postoperative outcomes, recurrence, or survival.

CONCLUSION

We found no difference in five-year recurrence and survival between diabetic patients and those without diabetes. Patients with pre-existing DM should be evaluated for PD on a comparable basis to non-diabetic patients.

Pancreatic surgery and tertiary pancreatitis services warrant provision for support from a specialist diabetes team

Pancreatic surgery units undertake several complex operations, albeit with considerable morbidity and mortality, as is the case for the management of complicated acute pancreatitis or chronic pancreatitis. The centralisation of pancreatic surgery services, with the development of designated large-volume centres, has contributed to significantly improved outcomes. In this editorial, we discuss the complex associations between diabetes mellitus (DM) and pancreatic/periampullary disease in the context of pancreatic surgery and overall management of complex pancreatitis, highlighting the consequential needs and the indispensable role of specialist diabetes teams in support of tertiary pancreatic services. Type 3c pancreatogenic DM, refers to DM developing in the setting of exocrine pancreatic disease, and its identification and management can be challenging, while the glycaemic control of such patients may affect their course of treatment and outcome. Adequate preoperative diabetes assessment is warranted to aid identification of patients who are likely to need commencement or escalation of glucose lowering therapy in the postoperative period. The incidence of new onset diabetes after pancreatic resection is widely variable in the literature, and depends on the type and extent of pancreatic resection, as is the case with pancreatic parenchymal loss in the context of severe pancreatitis. Early involvement of a specialist diabetes team is essential to ensure a holistic management. In the current era, large volume pancreatic surgery services commonly abide by the principles of enhanced recovery after surgery, with inclusion of provisions for optimisation of the perioperative glycaemic control, to improve outcomes. While various guidelines are available to aid perioperative management of DM, auditing and quality improvement platforms have highlighted deficiencies in the perioperative management of diabetic patients and areas of required improvement. The need for perioperative support of diabetic patients by specialist diabetes teams is uniformly underlined, a fact that becomes clearly more prominent at all different stages in the setting of pancreatic surgery and the management of complex pancreatitis. Therefore, pancreatic surgery and tertiary pancreatitis services must be designed with a provision for support from specialist diabetes teams. With the ongoing accumulation of evidence, it would be reasonable to consider the design of specific guidelines for the glycaemic management of these patients.

Impact of Preoperative Diabetes Mellitus on Postoperative Outcomes in Elective Pancreatic Surgery and Its Implications for Prehabilitation Practice

OBJECTIVES

Patients with pancreatic disease(s) have a high risk of developing diabetes mellitus (DM). Diabetes mellitus is associated with adverse postoperative outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and effects of DM on postoperative outcomes in pancreatic surgery.

METHODS

Subgroup analysis of a prospective cohort study conducted at an academic hospital. Patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy between January 2019 and November 2022 were included and screened for DM preoperatively using glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). New-onset DM was diagnosed based on HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (48 mmol/mol). Postoperative outcomes were compared between patients with and without DM.

RESULTS

From 117 patients, 29 (24.8%) were given a diagnosis of DM, and of those, 5 (17.2%) were diagnosed with new-onset DM, and 15 (51.8%) displayed poorly controlled preoperative DM (HbA 1c ≥ 7% [53 mmol/mol]). The incidence of surgical site infections (48.3% vs 27.3% in the non-DM group; P = 0.04) was higher for patients with DM. This association remained significant after adjusting for confounders (odds ratio, 2.60 [95% confidence interval, 1.03-6.66]; P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

One-quarter of the patients scheduled for pancreatoduodenectomy had DM; over half of them had poor glycemic control. The association between DM status and surgical site infections revealed in this study emphasizes the importance of adequate preoperative glycemic control.

Development of a Nomogram to Predict Clinically Relevant Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula After Pancreaticoduodenectomy on the Basis of Visceral Fat Area and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to develop a nomogram to predict the risk of developing clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) using preoperative clinical and imaging data.

METHODS

The data of 205 patients were retrospectively analyzed, randomly divided into training (n = 125) and testing groups (n = 80). The patients' preoperative laboratory indicators, preoperative clinical baseline data, and preoperative imaging data [enhanced computed tomography (CT), enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)] were collected. Univariate analyses combined with multivariate logistic regression were used to identify the independent risk factors for CR-POPF. These factors were used to train and validate the model and to develop the risk nomogram. The area under the curve (AUC) was used to measure the predictive ability of the models. The integrated discrimination improvement index (IDI) and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to assess the clinical feasibility of the nomogram in relation to five other models established in literature.

RESULTS

CT visceral fat area (P = 0.014), the pancreatic spleen signal ratio on T1 fat-suppressed MRI sequences (P < 0.001), and CT main pancreatic duct diameter (P = 0.001) were identified as independent prognostic factors and used to develop the model. The final nomogram achieved an AUC of 0.903. The IDI and DCA showed that the nomogram outperformed the other five CR-POPF models in the training and testing cohorts.

CONCLUSION

The nomogram achieved a superior predictive ability for CR-POPF following PD than other models described in literature. Clinicians can use this simple model to optimize perioperative planning according to the patient's risk of developing CR-POPF.

Influence of Diabetes Mellitus on Oncological Outcomes for Patients Living With Cancer

PURPOSE

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the association between preexisting diabetes in persons living with cancer on diabetes and oncology-related health outcomes. Understanding this association is of priority because the incidence of both cancer and diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted in collaboration with an expert health sciences librarian. Two authors independently conducted the screening, data collection, and extraction processes. The risk of bias was assessed using several tools, depending on the study design. Relative risks with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The alpha threshold was 0.05. All analyses were performed using R statistical software (Metaphor and Demeter packages).

RESULTS

A total of 45 studies met the selection criteria, but 23 were excluded from the synthesis because they did not have the ranked outcome or correct comparison (persons with and without diabetes), totaling 22 studies included in the meta-analysis. In comparison to participants without preexisting diabetes, participants with preexisting diabetes and cancer were found to have a significantly higher risk of infection and cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, hepatic, and renal complications. Concurrent preexisting diabetes and cancer were also associated with increased health care service utilization and length of hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

The findings from this review highlight the importance of optimal concurrent management of both diseases by overcoming the compartmentalization of medical specializations through (1) integrated, multidisciplinary, shared, and coordinated clinical care pathways between oncology and diabetes health care providers/teams and (2) the continued development of evidence-based clinical guidelines.

Does CT scanning after pancreatoduodenectomy reduce readmission rates: an analysis of 900 resections at a high-volume center

BACKGROUND

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) remains associated with significant complication and readmission rates. Infection constitutes a significant proportion of morbidity. We aim to evaluate whether CT scans performed prior to discharge for suspected infection prevents readmission.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing PD at a tertiary referral center from 2010 to 2018.

RESULTS

A total of 982 patients underwent PD: 74% had no clinical infection at the index admission. Of the non-infected patients, 59% exhibited leukocytosis, 27% underwent a CT scan, and 33.6% were readmitted. Of the non-infected patients, 148 (20.3%) experienced major complications, and this was the strongest predictor of readmission (OR: 10.5, [95% CI: 6.5-17], p = 0.0001). In the non-infected patients who had major complications, CT scanning was predictive of lower risk of readmission (OR: 0.38, [95% CI: 0.17-0.83], p = 0.015). Leukocytosis was also found to be predictive of lower risk of readmission (OR: 0.42, [95% CI: 0.18-0.98], p = 0.044). These findings did not hold true for those who had yet to experience major complications on their index admission.

CONCLUSION

CT scanning without evidence of infection was associated with reduction of readmission in the cohort with major complications and showed a trend towards preventing readmission in the overall cohort. Development of clinical algorithms to maximize the utility of this test is warranted.

Pancreatoduodenectomy: the Metabolic Syndrome is Associated with Preventable Morbidity and Mortality

BACKGROUND

Patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) may have increased perioperative morbidity and mortality. The aim of this analysis was to investigate the association of MS with mortality, serious morbidity, and pancreatectomy-specific outcomes in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

Patients with MS who underwent PD were selected from the 2014-2018 ACS-NSQIP pancreatectomy-specific database. MS was defined as obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²), diabetes, and hypertension. Demographics and outcomes were compared by χ² and Mann-Whitney tests, and adjusted odds ratios from multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between MS and primary outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 19,054 patients who underwent PD, 7.3% (n = 1388) had MS. On univariable analysis, patients with MS had significantly worse outcomes (p < 0.05): 30-day mortality (3% vs 1.8%), serious morbidity (26% vs 23%), re-intubation (4.9% vs 3.5%), pulmonary embolism (2.0% vs 1.1%), acute renal failure (1.5% vs 0.9%), cardiac arrest (1.9% vs 1.0%), and delayed gastric emptying (18% vs 16.5%). On multivariable analysis, 30-day mortality was significantly increased in patients with MS (aOR: 1.53, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Metabolic syndrome is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy. The association with mortality is a novel observation. Perioperative strategies aimed at reduction and/or mitigation of cardiac, pulmonary, thrombotic, and renal complications should be employed in this population given their increased risk.

High Glucose Promotes Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Gemcitabine Resistance and Invasion through Modulating ROS/MMP-3 Signaling Pathway

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is often concomitant with diabetes mellitus, which mainly manifests as an increased blood glucose level. Previous studies revealed that diabetic status reduced the survival and blunted gemcitabine sensitivity in PDA patients. This study is aimed at analyzing the mechanism of elevated gemcitabine resistance and cancer invasion ability under high glucose environment. We selected 129 patients with 22 surgical resected samples from 2015 to 2021, who underwent pancreatic surgery in Huashan Hospital. The gene expression and clinical data of PDA were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) website and were analyzed by R software. Cell viability assays and flow cytometry were applied to detect gemcitabine sensitivity and apoptosis levels in pancreatic cancer cells. Wound healing and Transwell tests were used to analyze the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells. Streptozotocin (STZ) was used to establish a hyperglycemic mouse model for the in vivo study. In this study, diabetic PDA gemcitabine users showed reduced survival compared to euglycemic PDA gemcitabine users. Clinical samples and laboratory studies revealed that MMP-3 expression was associated with glucose concentration and diabetic status. Elevated MMP-3 expression was positively related to cancer invasion and gemcitabine resistance in PDA cells and gemcitabine resistant PDA cells. Blocking MMP-3 expression inhibited gemcitabine resistance and cancer progression in cellular and animal models. MMP-3 was closely related to the expression of RRM1, a gemcitabine metabolism-related gene. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level increased under higher glucose concentrations and was mediated by NOX4. ROS determined the MMP-3 expression in pancreatic cancer cells. Inhibiting NOX4 expression effectively suppressed MMP-3 expression, gemcitabine resistance, and cancer invasion. In conclusion, a high glucose environment induces gemcitabine resistance and cancer invasion via ROS/MMP-3 signaling pathway. MMP-3 can be a potential novel target for suppressing gemcitabine resistance and invasion in PDA.

Diabetes Mellitus and Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma-Prevalence, Clinicopathological Variables, and Clinical Outcomes

Simple Summary

The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) among patients with the diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), analyse the association between the occurrence of DM and clinicopathological factors, and detect variables influencing overall survival. Diabetes mellitus is prevalent among patients with pancreatic cancer. In our study, patients with diabetes mellitus receiving palliative chemotherapy had significantly higher median OS than those without. Among variables influencing survival, TNM stage, nodal involvement, tumour site, levels of CEA and CRP were confirmed.

Abstract

Background: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths with increasing incidence and link to the onset of diabetes mellitus (DM). The aim of this study is to describe the prevalence of DM among patients with the diagnosis of PDAC, analyse the association between the occurrence of DM and clinicopathological factors, and detect variables influencing overall survival. Methods: a retrospective analysis of medical records was performed. The patients were divided into non-DM (n = 101) and DM (n = 74) groups. Statistical analysis with the usage of appropriate tests was conducted. Results: Patients in the groups of DM and NODM had significantly longer median OS than the non-DM group. Nodal involvement, tumour location, level of CEA, CRP and CRP/lymphocytes ratio were significantly associated with OS among patients with any type of DM. Neutropenia was less frequently observed in the DM group. Conclusions: DM is prevalent among patients with pancreatic cancer. In our study, patients with DM receiving palliative chemotherapy had significantly higher median OS than those without DM. The increased comprehension of the mechanisms of the relationship between DM and pancreatic cancer needs further research, which might provide avenues for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies.

The Role of Diabetes Mellitus in the Malignant Pancreatic Cyst Neoplasm Diagnosis and Prognosis

Purpose

Pancreatic cyst neoplasm (PCN) is a precursor of pancreatic cancer. Previous studies reported PCN was often concurrent with diabetes. We aim to examine the association between diabetes with PCN malignancy and to detect the potential role of diabetes in PCN management and treatment.

Patients and Methods

A total of 224 patients who were diagnosed with the three major types of PCN (IPMN, MCN, and SCN) and underwent surgical resection were selected. Patients were divided into three groups (normal group, new-onset diabetes group (NODM) (<4years), and long-standing diabetes group (LSDM) (>4years)) according to diabetic history and diagnostic time interval. Diabetes, fast blood glucose level, HbA1c, and insulin resistance level were measured. Malignant PCN (mPCN) radiological features (worrisome features and high-risk stigmata) were analyzed. Pathological features (PCN type, dysplasia grade, tumor stage, and tumor volume) and immunohistology of Ki67 and SMAD4 were performed. Diagnostic efficacy of each variable was determined by the ROC curve. mPCN diagnosis was the main outcome in diagnostic prediction and overall survival as the glucose controlling outcome variables.

Results

Diabetes groups (NODM and LSDM) showed difference with the normal group in age, weight loss, malignancy, CA19-9 value, CEA value, Ki-67 value, tumor volume, pathological grade, and a lowered pancreatic fistula risk. NODM was related to insulin resistance, weight loss, and SMAD4 mutation. NODM (87.3%) and high insulin resistance rate (93.6%) significantly increased the sensitivity of radiological evidence-based mPCN diagnosis. Moreover, long-standing diabetes and elevated HbA1c led to reduced survival in mPCN patients than the normal PCN group. Anti-diabetic drugs showed limited influence on PCN malignancy and tumor volume.

Conclusion

NODM in PCN patients was associated with malignancy, insulin resistance, weight loss, and SMAD4 mutation. Prediabetic status and NODM diagnosis enhanced the diagnostic accuracy of radiological standards (worrisome features and high-risk stigmata). Stable glucose surveillance is necessary for mPCN patients’ survival.

Early discontinuation of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer correlates with inferior survival: A multicenter population-based cohort study

Background

The current study aimed to determine the association between timing and completion of adjuvant chemotherapy and outcomes in real-world patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer.

Methods

In this multi-center cohort study patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer who were diagnosed from 2007–2017 and underwent complete resection in the province of Saskatchewan were examined. Cox proportional multivariate analyses were performed for correlation with recurrence and survival.

Results

Of 168 patients, 71 eligible patients with median age of 69 years and M:F of 37:34 were identified. Median time to the start of adjuvant therapy from surgery was 73 days. Of all patients, 49 (69%) patients completed adjuvant chemotherapy and 22 (31%) required early treatment discontinuation. Median recurrence-free survival of patients who completed treatment was 22 months (95%CI:15.8–28.2) vs. 9 months (3.3–14.7) if treatment was discontinued early (P<0.001). Median overall survival of those who completed treatment was 33 (17.5–48.5) vs. 16 months (17.5–48.5) with early treatment discontinuation (P<0.001). In the multivariate analysis, treatment discontinuation was significantly correlated with recurrent disease, hazard ratio (HR), 2.57 (1.41–4.68), P = 0.002 and inferior survival, HR, 2.55 (1.39–4.68), P = 0.003. No correlation between treatment timing and survival was noted.

Conclusions

Early discontinuation but not the timing of adjuvant chemotherapy correlates with inferior outcomes.

Surgery for Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms of the Pancreas: Preoperative Factors Tipping the Scale of Decision-Making

Background

Decision-making in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas depends on scaling the risk of malignancy with the surgical burden of a pancreatectomy. This study aimed to develop a preoperative, disease-specific tool to predict surgical morbidity for IPMNs.

Methods

Based on preoperative variables of resected IPMNs at two high-volume institutions, classification tree analysis was applied to derive a predictive model identifying the risk factors for major morbidity (Clavien–Dindo ≥3) and postoperative pancreatic insufficiency.

Results

Among 524 patients, 289 (55.2%) underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), 144 (27.5%) underwent distal pancreatectomy (DP), and 91 (17.4%) underwent total pancreatectomy (TP) for main-duct (18.7%), branch-duct (12.6%), or mixed-type (68.7%) IPMN. For 98 (18.7%) of the patients, major morbidity developed. The classification tree distinguished different probabilities of major complications based on the type of surgery (area under the surve [AUC] 0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.63–0.77). Among the DP patients, the presence of preoperative diabetes identified two risk classes with respective probabilities of 5% and 25% for the development of major morbidity, whereas among the PD/TP patients, three different classes with respective probabilities of 15%, 20%, and 36% were identified according to age and body mass index (BMI). Overall, history of diabetes, age, and cyst size segregated three different risk classes for new-onset/worsening diabetes.

Conclusions

In presumed IPMNs, the disease-specific risk of major morbidity and pancreatic insufficiency can be determined in the preoperative setting and used to personalize the possible surgical indication. Age and overweight status in case of PD/TP and diabetes in case of DP tip the scale toward less aggressive clinical management in the absence of features suggestive for malignancy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1245/s10434-022-11326-5.

Hemoglobin A1c Is a Predictor of New Insulin Dependence After Partial Pancreatectomy: A Multi-Institutional Analysis

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic diseases have long been associated with impaired glucose control. This study sought to identify the incidence of new insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) after pancreatectomy and the predictive accuracy of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) or blood glucose.

METHODS

Patients who underwent partial pancreatectomy and had preoperative HbA1c available at two academic institutions were assessed for new IDDM on discharge in relation to complication rates and survival.

RESULTS

Of the 267 patients analyzed, 67% had abnormal HbA1c levels prior to surgery (mean 6.8%, glucose 135 mg/dL). Two hundred eight (77.9%) were not insulin-dependent prior to surgery, and 35 (16.8%) developed new IDDM after resection. On multivariable regression, increasing HbA1c and preoperative glucose were the only significant predictors for new IDDM. Optimal predictive cutoffs (HbA1c of 6.25% and glucose of 121 mg/dL) were determined in a discovery group (n = 143) and confirmed in a validation group (n = 124) with a diagnostic sensitivity of 72.7% and specificity of 84.8%. Patients with new IDDM after resection had higher rates of severe complications (OR 3.39), increased TPN at discharge (OR 4.32), and increased rates of discharge to nursing facilities (OR 2.57) (all P < 0.05). New IDDM was also associated with a decreased cancer-specific survival.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative HbA1c ≥ 6.25% and blood glucose ≥ 121 mg/dL can accurately identify patients at increased risk of IDDM. These diagnostics may help identify patients in a preoperative setting that may benefit from interventions such as diabetes education or enhanced glucose control preoperatively.

Nomogram and a predictive model for postoperative hemorrhage in preoperative patients of laparoscopic pancreaticoduodectomy

To develop a predictive model and a nomogram for predicting postoperative hemorrhage in preoperative patients undergoing laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD). A total of 409 LPD patients that underwent LPD by the same surgical team between January 2014 and December 2020 were included as the training cohort. The preoperative data of patients were statistically compared and analyzed for exploring factors correlated with postoperative hemorrhage. The predictive model was developed by multivariate logistic regression and stepwise (stepAIC) selection. A nomogram based on the predictive model was developed. The discriminatory ability of the predictive model was validated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and leave-one-out method. The statistical analysis was performed using R 3.5.1 (www.r-project.org). The predictive model including the risk-associated factors of postoperative hemorrhage was as follows: 2.695843 − 0.63056 × (Jaundice = 1) − 1.08368 × (DM = 1) − 2.10445 × (Hepatitis = 1) + 1.152354 × (Pancreatic tumor = 1) + 1.071354 × (Bile duct tumor = 1) − 0.01185 × CA125 − 0.04929 × TT − 0.08826 × APTT + 26.03383 × INR − 1.9442 × PT + 1.979563 × WBC − 2.26868 × NEU − 2.0789 × LYM − 0.02038 × CREA + 0.00459 × AST. A practical nomogram based on the model was obtained. The internal validation of ROC curve was statistically significant (AUC = 0.7758). The validation by leave-one-out method showed that the accuracy of the model and the F measure was 0.887 and 0.939, respectively. The predictive model and nomogram based on the preoperative data of patients undergoing LPD can be useful for predicting the risk degree of postoperative hemorrhage.

Development of a Novel Pancreatoduodenectomy-Specific Risk Calculator: an Analysis of 10,000 Patients

BACKGROUND

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is often performed in frail patients and is associated with significant morbidity. The five-factor modified frailty index (mFI-5) has been utilized to predict adverse postoperative outcomes, but has not been tested in PD. We aimed to develop risk tools to generate and predict 30-day outcomes after PD and compare their performance with the mFI-5. Risk tools were then used to generate a PD-specific calculator.

METHODS

Elective PDs from the 2014-2016 ACS NSQIP® Procedure Targeted Pancreatectomy PUFs were identified. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to predict postoperative mortality, any complication, serious complication, clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF), and discharge not-to-home. Predictive accuracy was evaluated through repeated stratified tenfold cross-validation and compared to the mFI-5.

RESULTS

Nine thousand eight hundred sixty-seven PDs were captured. Nine risk factors were retained: sex, age, BMI, DM, HTN, ASA classification, pancreatic duct size, gland texture, and adenocarcinoma. Cross-validated C-indices ranged from 0.49 to 0.61 for the mFI-5 and 0.63 to 0.75 for our risk models. The best-performing model was for discharge not-to-home (C = 0.75), and the model delivering the largest increase in predictive accuracy was for CR-POPF (C_mFI-5/Model = 0.49/0.70). A user-friendly risk calculator was created predicting the five outcomes of interest.

CONCLUSION

We have created a PD-specific risk calculator that outperforms the mFI-5. This calculator may serve as a useful adjunct in shared decision-making for patients and surgeons.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on morbidity and survival after pancreaticoduodenectomy for malignancy

Backgrounds/Aims

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a known risk factor for morbidity, length of hospital stay, or mortality after surgery, however, its impact on postoperative course and long-term survival after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is not clear.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database of 141 patients with periampullary and pancreatic head adenocarcinoma operated between January 2001 and March 2019. Clinico-pathological records and follow-up data were retrieved and analyzed. Cumulative hazard was computed for comparing the survival between DM and non-DM.

Results

DM was present in 31/141 (21.9%) patients, while 16/31 (51.6%). were new-onset DM (NODM). Tumor size, lymphovascular & perineural invasion, type of surgery, lymph node positivity and R0 resection rate were comparable between diabetic and non-diabetic. There was no significant difference in postoperative pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying, infectious complication, hospital stay and mortality between DM and nondiabetics. Patients with DM had worse survival at 3 years (OS: HR, 3.11 [1.43-6.76] p=0.004, DFS: HR, 2.61 [1.23-5.53] p=0.01) and 5 years (OS: HR, 3.32 [1.46-7.53] p=0.004, DFS: HR, 2.87 [1.29-6.41] p=0.009). On multivariate analysis, DM (3 year OS: HR, 2.61 [1.14-5.98] p=0.022, DFS: HR, 2.19; p=0.058) (5 year OS: HR, 2.55; p=0.04, DFS: HR, 2.25; p=0.068) and pylorus resecting surgery were significantly associated with worse survival at 3 and 5 years.

Conclusions

Preoperative DM has no significant effect on postoperative course but has negative impact on 3-year and 5-year OS and DFS after PD for pancreatic and periampullary adenocarcinoma.

Risk Factors and a New Prediction Model for Pancreatic Fistula After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Aim

In order to find the risk factors of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) according to the latest definition and grading system of International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) (version 2016) and propose a nomogram for predicting POPF.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 232 successive cases of PD performed at our hospital by the same operator from August 2012 to June 2020. POPF was diagnosed in accordance with the latest definition of pancreatic fistula from the ISGPS. The risk factors of POPF were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. A nomogram model to predict the risk of POPF was constructed based on significant factors.

Results

There were 18 cases of POPF, accounting for 7.8% of the total. Among them, 17 cases were classified into ISGPF grade B and 1 case was classified into ISGPF grade C. In addition, 35 cases were classified into biochemical leak. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that hypertension, non-diabetes, no history of abdominal surgery, antecolic gastrojejunostomy and soft pancreas were independent risk factors of POPF. Based on significant factors, a nomogram is plotted to predict the risk of POPF. The C-index of this nomogram to assess prediction accuracy was 0.916 (P < 0.001) indicating good prediction performance.

Conclusion

Hypertension, non-diabetes, no history of abdominal surgery, antecolic gastrojejunostomy and soft pancreas were independent risk factors of POPF. Meanwhile, a nomogram for predicting POPF with good test performance and discriminatory capacity was constituted.

Clinical Impact of Portal Vein Distance on Computed Tomography for Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula after Pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic fistulas remain a significant concern after pancreatectomy owing to the associated high risk of mortality and high costs. It is not possible to perform preoperative risk stratification for all patients. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of the measurement of portal vein (PV) distance as a predictive indicator of pancreatic fistula development after pancreatoduodenectomy and compare it with the usefulness of other indicators such as body mass index (BMI), and abdominal fat area.

METHODS

Patient characteristics, preoperative laboratory data, radiographic findings, and their association with pancreatic fistula development after pancreatoduodenectomy were analyzed for 157 patients who underwent resection during 2011-2017. Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistulas (CR-POPF) were defined as Grade B or C fistulas based on the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) 2016 consensus.

RESULTS

CR-POPF developed in 38 patients (24.2%). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that PV distance and BMI were potential candidates for predictive models for pancreatic fistula development, and small pancreatic duct diameter, diabetes mellitus development, and pathology of non-pancreatic cancers were independent factors for CR-POPF. When comparing the two risk models (PV distance- and BMI-based models), the PV distance-derived risk model was compatible to the BMI-based stratification models (area under the curve 0.831 vs. 0.830).

CONCLUSIONS

PV distance was confirmed to be a useful risk predictor for CR-POPF. This research highlighted the efficacy of abdominal thickness measurement, which is simple and easily applicable in the clinical setting.

Association between fasting blood glucose levels at admission and overall survival of patients with pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

The associations between fasting blood glucose and staging and overall survival of patients with pancreatic cancer are still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the association between fasting blood glucose levels and overall survival (OS) of patients with pancreatic cancer and to evaluate the impact of differentiation and staging of pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients with pathologically confirmed pancreatic cancer admitted to Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University between 01/2012 and 12/2016. The outcome was the OS. The factors associated with OS were examined using univariable and multivariable Cox and logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 253 patients were included. Preoperative blood glucose levels were not significantly associated with the OS of patients with pancreatic cancer (HR = 1.04, 95%CI: 0.78-1.40, P = 0.781). Only CA199 > 1000 was independently associated with OS (HR = 1.86, 95%CI: 1.15-3.02, P = 0.012). The median survival in the normal glucose group was 20.5 months (95% confidence interval (CI): 14.2-26.9). The median survival in the high glucose group was 14.2 months (95% CI: 9.7-18.6). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.573). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine if blood glucose levels influenced the 1- and 2-year OS. No significant association was observed for 1-year (OR = 1.27, 95%CI: 0.71-2.29, P = 0.418) or 2-year (HR = 1.37, 95%CI: 0.76-2.46, P = 0.296) OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Fasting blood glucose levels are not associated with the OS of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of factors associated with post-operative pancreatic fistula following pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Many studies have explored factors relating to post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF); however, the original definition (All-POPF) was revised to include only 'clinically relevant' (CR) POPF. This study identified variables associated with the two International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery definitions to identify which variables are more strongly associated with CR-POPF.

METHODS

A systematic review identified all studies reporting risk factors for POPF (using both International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula definitions) following pancreatoduodenectomy. The primary outcome was factors associated with CR-POPF. Meta-analyses (random effects models) of pre-, intra- and post-operative factors associated with POPF in more than two studies were included.

RESULTS

Among 52 774 patients All-POPF (n = 69 studies) and CR-POPF (n = 53 studies) affected 27% (95% confidence interval (CI_95% ) 23-30) and 19% (CI_95% 17-22), respectively. Of the 176 factors, 24 and 17 were associated with All- and CR-POPF, respectively. Absence of pre-operative pancreatitis, presence of renal disease, no pre-operative neoadjuvant therapy, use of post-operative somatostatin analogues, absence of associated venous or arterial resection were associated with CR-POPF but not All-POPF.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion this study demonstrates wide variation in reported rates of POPF and that several risk factors associated with CR-POPF are not used within risk prediction models. Data from this study can be used to shape future studies, research and audit across ethnic and geographic boundaries in POPF following pancreatoduodenectomy.

Does Preoperative MELD Score Predict Adverse Outcomes Following Pancreatic Resection: an ACS NSQIP Analysis

BACKGROUND

Higher MELD scores correlate with adverse operative outcomes regardless of the presence of liver disease, but their impact on pancreatectomy outcomes remains undefined. We aimed to compare 30-day adverse postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing elective pancreatectomy stratified by MELD score.

METHODS

Elective pancreatoduodenectomies (PDs) and distal pancreatectomies (DPs) were identified from the 2014-2016 ACS NSQIP Procedure Targeted Pancreatectomy Participant Use Data Files. Outcomes examined included mortality, cardiopulmonary complications, prolonged postoperative length-of-stay, discharge not-to-home, transfusion, POPF, CR-POPF, any complication, and serious complication. Outcomes were compared between MELD score strata (< 11 vs. ≥ 11) as established by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to examine the risk-adjusted impact of MELD score on outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 7580 PDs and 3295 DPs had evaluable MELD scores. Of these, 1701 PDs and 223 DPs had a MELD score ≥ 11. PDs with MELD ≥ 11 exhibited higher risk for mortality (OR = 2.07, p < 0.001), discharge not-to-home (OR = 1.26, p = 0.005), and transfusion (OR = 1.7, p < 0.001). DP patients with MELD ≥ 11 demonstrated prolonged LOS (OR = 1.75, p < 0.001), discharge not-to-home (OR = 1.83, p = 0.01), and transfusion (OR = 2.78, p < 0.001). In PD, MELD ≥ 11 was independently predictive of 30-day mortality (OR = 1.69, p = 0.007) and transfusion (OR = 1.55, p < 0.001). In DP, MELD ≥ 11 was independently predictive of prolonged LOS (OR = 1.42, p = 0.026) and transfusion (OR = 2.3, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A MELD score ≥ 11 is associated with a near twofold increase in the odds of mortality following pancreatoduodenectomy. The MELD score is an objective assessment that aids in risk-stratifying patients undergoing pancreatectomy.

Utilization of chemoradiation therapy provides strongest protective effect for avoidance of postoperative pancreatic fistula following pancreaticoduodenectomy: A NSQIP analysis

BACKGROUND

The utilization of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) before performing pancreaticoduodenectomy for malignancy has been well established as a protective factor for the prevention of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). However, there is a paucity of published data evaluating the specific NAT regimen that is the most protective against POPF development. We evaluated the differences between neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CT) and chemoradiation therapy (CRT) with regard to the effect on POPF rates.

METHODS

The main and targeted pancreatectomy American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registries for 2014-2016 were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 10,665 pancreaticoduodenectomy cases were present. The primary outcome was POPF development. The factors that have previously been shown to be associated with or suspected to be associated with POPF were evaluated. The factors included NAT, sex, age, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, smoking, steroid therapy, preoperative weight loss, preoperative albumin level, perioperative blood transfusions, wound classification, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, duct size (<3 mm, 3-6 mm, and >6 mm), gland texture (soft, intermediate, and hard), and anastomotic technique. The factors identified to be statistically significant were then used for propensity score matching to compare POPF development between the cases utilizing CT versus CRT.

RESULTS

A total of 10,117 cases met the inclusion criteria. The development of POPF was significantly associated, on multivariate analysis, with a lack of NAT, male sex, higher BMI, nondiabetic status, nonsmoker status, decreased weight loss, preoperative albumin level, decreased duct size, and soft gland texture. NAT, duct size, and gland texture had the strongest associations with the development of POPF (p < .0001). The overall 1765 cases (17.45%) received NAT and the POPF rate for cases with NAT was 10.20% versus 20.10% for cases without NAT (p < .0001). A total of 1031 cases underwent CT and 734 cases underwent CRT, respectively. A total of 708 paired cases were selected for analysis based on propensity score matching. The POPF rates were 11.20% versus 3.50% for CT and CRT, respectively (p < .0001). There was no difference in the frequencies of specific POPF grades. The decreased POPF rate with CRT correlated with firmer gland texture rates.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the largest analysis of specific NAT regimens with regard to the development of POPF following pancreaticoduodenectomy. CRT provided the strongest protective effect. That protective effect is most likely due to increased fibrosis in the pancreatic parenchyma from radiation therapy. These findings provide additional support to consider CRT over CT alone in the treatment of pancreatic cancer when NAT will be utilized.

Impact of Antithrombotic Agents on Postpancreatectomy Hemorrhage: Results from a Retrospective Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

This retrospective multicenter study aimed to evaluate the risk of postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH) in patients receiving antithrombotic agents (ATAs). PPH is the most severe complication after pancreatectomy. However, there is little known about the strength of the association between ATA use, PPH, and other clinical outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

Between 2007 and 2016, 1,297 patients underwent pancreatectomy at 2 surgical centers. ATA use included aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants, and intravenous unfractionated heparin. The ATA group was composed of 144 patients who were taking ATAs before surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 35 patients developed PPH. The patients in the ATA group showed higher frequency (8.3% vs 2.0%, p < 0.001) of PPH compared with the control group (n = 1,153). In multivariate analysis, ATA use was an independent adverse risk factor for PPH (odds ratio [OR] 3.58, 95% CI 1.29-9.91, p = 0.014). Stratification by preoperative ATA therapy revealed a significant risk of PPH Grade C in patients receiving combined AT therapy. The median onset of late hemorrhage (>24 hours post-surgery) in the ATA group was later than in the control group (17.5 vs 8.5 days, p = 0.032), and the incidence tended to be higher in patients who restarted ATAs postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

History of ATA use is a significant risk factor for PPH, and postoperative resumption of ATAs appears to be associated with an increased risk of PPH. Patients receiving combined antithrombotic therapy may be at particularly high risk for PPH.

The relationship between pancreatic cancer and type 2 diabetes: cause and consequence

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a devastating and lethal malignant disease and it is well known that there is a complex bidirectional relationship between PC and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In order to more deeply summarize the relationship between them, this article summarizes the epidemiological data on the relationship between PC and T2DM in the past 5 years, and further explains the mechanism of interaction between them. Meanwhile, it also summed up the effects of drug therapy for T2DM on PC and the impact of T2DM on surgical resection of PC. Epidemiological studies clearly indicate that the risk of PC is increased in patients with T2DM. But increasing epidemiological data points out that PC also acts as a cause of T2DM and new-onset T2DM is sign and consequence of PC. Insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, and chronic inflammation are the mechanisms of T2DM-Associated PC. Metformin decreases the risk of PC, while insulin therapy increases the risk of PC. Besides, studies have shown that T2DM decreases the survival in patients with PC resection.

Risk factors for postoperative pancreatic fistula: Analysis of 170 consecutive cases of pancreaticoduodenectomy based on the updated ISGPS classification and grading system

This study was designed to analyze the risk factors for postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).Between September 2015 and August 2017, 170 successive patients underwent a radical PD in the Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Wuhan. We carried out a retrospective study of these cases and the prospective conditions, which might be related to POPF, were examined with univariate and multivariate analysis. POPF was defined as a drain output of any measurable volume of fluid with an amylase level more than 3 times the upper limit of serum amylase activity on postoperative day 3, accompanied by a clinically relevant condition according to the 2016 update of the International Study Group for Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) definition. In our study, the POPF was just referred to as grade B and grade C pancreatic fistula in accordance with the ISGPS consensus, because the former grade A pancreatic fistula is now redefined as a biochemical leak, namely no-POPF, which has no clinical impact and needs no other special therapy.Pancreatic fistula occurred in 44 (25.9%) patients after PD, with a mean length of hospital stay of 24.98 ± 14.30 days. Thirty-six patients (21.2%) developed grade B pancreatic fistula, and 8 patients (4.7%) had grade C pancreatic fistula. Among patients with grade C pancreatic fistula, 4 patients died, 3 patients were operated on again, and 3 patients developed multiple organ failure.Univariate analysis showed a significantly important association between POPF and the following factors: pancreas texture (soft vs hard: 39.1% vs 10.3%, P < .0001) and fasting blood glucose level (<108.0 mg/dL vs ≥108.0 mg/dL: 32.5% vs 12.5%, P = .005). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified 2 independent factors related to POPF: soft pancreas texture and fasting blood glucose level <108.0 mg/dL.A soft pancreas and a fasting blood glucose level of <108.0 mg/dL are risk factors for the development of a POPF.

New-onset diabetes after pancreatoduodenectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Pancreatoduodenectomy may lead to new-onset diabetes mellitus, also known as type 3c diabetes, but the exact risk of this complication is unknown. The aim of this review was to assess the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus after pancreatoduodenectomy.

METHODS

A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase (Ovid), and the Cochrane Library for English articles published from March 1993 until March 2017 (PROSPERO registry number: CRD42016039784). Studies reporting on the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus after pancreatoduodenectomy were included. For meta-analysis, studies were pooled using the random-effects model. All studies were appraised according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

After screening 1,523 studies, 22 studies involving 1,121 patients were eligible. The mean weighted overall proportion of new-onset diabetes mellitus after pancreatoduodenectomy was 16% (95% confidence interval, 12%-20%). We found no significant difference in risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus when pancreatoduodenectomy was performed for nonmalignant disease after excluding patients with chronic pancreatitis (19% risk; 95% confidence interval, 7%-43%; 6 studies) or for malignant disease (22% risk; 95% confidence interval, 14%-32%; 11 studies), P = .71. Among all patients, 6% (95% confidence interval, 4%-10%) developed insulin-dependent new-onset diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review identified a clinically relevant risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus after pancreatoduodenectomy of which patients should be informed preoperatively.

Impact Factors for Perioperative Morbidity and Mortality and Repercussion of Perioperative Morbidity and Long-term Survival in Pancreatic Head Resection

Background

The focus of the present study was to reveal any impact factors for perioperative morbidity and mortality as well as repercussion of perioperative morbidity on long-term survival in pancreatic head resection.

Patients and methods

In a retrospective study, clinic-pathological factors of 240 patients after pancreatic head (PD) or total resection were analyzed for correlations with morbidity, 30- and 90-day mortality, and long-term survival. According to Clavien–Dindo classification, all complications with grade II and more were defined as overall complications (OAC). OAC, all surgical (ASC), general (AGC) and some specific types of complications like leaks from the pancreatoenteric anastomosis (PEA) or pancreatic fistula (PF, type A, B and C), leaks from other anastomoses (OL), bleeding (BC) and abscesses (AA) were studied for correlation with clinic-pathological factors.

Results

In the 9-year period, altogether 240 patients had pancreatic resection. The incidence of OAC was 37.1%, ASC 29.2% and AGC 15.8%. ASC presented themselves as PL, OL, BC and AA in 19% (of 208 PD), 5.8%, 5.8%, and 2.5% respectively. Age, ASA score, amylase on drains, and pancreatic fistulas B and C correlated significantly with different types of complications. Overall 30- and 90-day mortalities were 5 and 7.9% and decreased to 3.5 and 5% in P2.

Conclusions

High amylase on drains and higher mean age were independent indicators of morbidity, whereas PL and BC revealed as independent predictor for 30-day mortality, and physical status, OAC and PF C for 90-day mortality.

The impact of pancreaticoduodenectomy on endocrine and exocrine pancreatic function: A prospective cohort study based on pre- and postoperative function tests

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Studies reporting on function after pancreatic surgery are frequently based on diabetes history, fasting glycemia or random glycemia. The aim of this study was to investigate prospectively the evolution of pancreatic function in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy based on proper pre- and postoperative function tests. It was hypothesised that pancreatic function deteriorates after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

Between 2013 and 2016, 78 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy for oncologic indications had a prospective evaluation of their endocrine and exocrine pancreatic function. Endocrine function was evaluated with the 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and the 1 mg intravenous glucagon test. Exocrine function was evaluated with a 13C-labelled mixed-triglyceride breath test. Tests were performed pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS

In 90.5% (19/21) of patients with preoperatively known diabetes, no change in endocrine function was observed. In contrast, endocrine function improved in 68.1% (15/22) of patients with newly diagnosed diabetes. 40% (14/35) of patients with a preoperative normal OGTT or prediabetes experienced deterioration in function. In multivariate analysis, improvement of newly diagnosed diabetes was correlated with preoperative bilirubin levels (p = 0.045), while progression towards diabetes was correlated with preoperative C-peptidogenic index T₃₀ (p = 0.037). A total of 20.5% (16/78) of patients had pancreatic exocrine insufficiency preoperatively. Another 51.3% (40/78) of patients deteriorated on exocrine level. In total, 64.1% (50/78) of patients required pancreatic enzyme-replacement therapy postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although deterioration of endocrine function was expected after pancreatic resection, improvement is frequently observed in patients with newly diagnosed diabetes. Exocrine function deteriorates after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on clinical outcomes of pancreatic cancer after surgical resection: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer but its impact on postoperative outcomes and long-term survival after cancer resection remains controversial. A meta-analysis of published studies was conducted to address this issue.

METHODS

An extensive electronic search of four databases was performed for relevant articles. Data were processed for meta-analysis using Review Manager version 5.1.

RESULTS

Seventeen observational studies involving 5407 patients were subjected to the analysis. Overall morbidity or any type of complications and mortality were comparable between diabetic and non-diabetic subjects. Overall DM has a significant negative impact on survival (risk ratio [RR], 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.45; P = 0.01). Stratification by the type of DM revealed that new-onset DM (<2 years duration, RR, 1.54, 95% CI, 1.24-1.91; P <0.001) but not long-standing DM (≥2 years duration, RR, 1.74, 95% CI, 0.86-3.52; P = 0.12) was associated with reduced survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes mellitus does not affect perioperative outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer. However, new-onset DM confers a negative impact on survival of pancreatic cancer in patients undergoing surgical resection.

Poor Results of Pancreatoduodenectomy in High-Risk Patients with Endoscopic Stent and Bile Colonization are Associated with E. coli, Diabetes and Advanced Age

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic stenting has spread as bridge management before pancreatoduedenectomy (PD) to resolve jaundice, but its role is nowadays challenged as it is reported to increase morbidity. Although bile sampling is increasingly performed, its clinical role is unclear. The objective of the study is to assess bile colonization's impact on outcome.

METHODS

Results of pancreatoduodenectomy after endoscopic stenting are analyzed in 61 high-risk patients presenting bacterial bile colonization. The impact of 11 demographic, clinical, infectious, and laboratory parameters and outcome, including pancreatic leakage, morbidity, and mortality, is analyzed.

RESULTS

All stented patients present bacterial bile colonization and PD mortality approaches 10 %. The presence of E. coli in the bile is significantly related to poor outcome, including 23.5 % mortality (p = 0.034), whereas age (≥70 years) and diabetes present borderline results (p < 0.070 and p < 0.066, respectively). E. coli (p = 0.002) and age (p = 0.017) are also related to grade C pancreatic fistula.

CONCLUSIONS

In high-risk patients undergoing PD, bile colonization inevitably occurs after endoscopic stenting and is a major risk factor of poor outcome, reaching its maximum in the case of E. coli colonization and elderly patients, where the indication to stent and/or to perform PD should be accurately evaluated. E. coli-targeted antibiotic prophylaxis should be administered.

Diabetes mellitus and pre-diabetes are frequently undiagnosed and underreported in patients referred for pancreatic surgery. A prospective observational study

OBJECTIVE

Previous reports on the prevalence of diabetes in pancreatic cancer and chronic pancreatitis patients are based on inconsistent and equivocal criteria. The objective of this study is to prospectively assess with conclusive methods the preoperative glycaemic status of patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. We hypothesise that most of those patients are unaware of these disturbances in glycaemic status and that the prevalence is underestimated.

METHODS

During the last 2 years, patients referred for pancreatic surgery and without history of diabetes underwent a prospective preoperative screening with an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and determination of the glycated haemoglobin level (HbA1c). The American Diabetes Association's criteria for diabetes and pre-diabetes were used. Beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity were calculated using HOMA2 indices. Impact on surgical policy has been scored.

RESULTS

99 patients were screened, 25 had a history of diabetes. The other 74 underwent an OGTT and HbA1c determination. Only 29.7% (22/74) had a normal glucose metabolism, while 8.1% (6/74) had impaired fasting glucose, 21.6% (16/74) had impaired glucose tolerance, 6.7% (5/74) had a combination of both, and 33.8% (25/74) had undiagnosed diabetes. In 15.2% (15/99) of the patients, this preoperative assessment had an impact on surgical policy.

CONCLUSIONS

77.7% of patients referred for pancreatic surgery had some degree of (pre-)diabetes. In 70.3% of patients without a history of diabetes, these disturbances in glucose metabolism are a new finding. Physicians involved in pancreatic surgery should be aware of the frequently undiagnosed (pre-)diabetes and actively check for it. This prevalence is underestimated.

Effect of Uncontrolled Diabetes on Outcomes After Cystectomy in Patients With Bladder Cancer: A Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the complications, mortality, hospital length of stay (LOS), and cost for patients with diabetes undergoing radical cystectomy (RC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were extracted from the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample for 2001 to 2012 using the "International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification" codes for patients with uncontrolled diabetes (UD) (patients with diabetes receiving treatment that did not keep the blood glucose at acceptable levels) and controlled diabetes (CD) (patients with diabetes not otherwise stated as uncontrolled) who had undergone RC. χ² and Wilcoxon rank sum tests and multivariable regression analysis were used for statistics. The LOS and cost are presented as the median and interquartile range.

RESULTS

In the present study, 989 patients had UD, 15,693 CD, and 73,603 had no diabetes (ND). Postoperative complications were significantly more common in the UD group (73%) than in the CD (51%) and ND (52%) groups (P < .0001). On multivariable analysis, the UD group were more likely than the CD group to have any complication (odds ratio [OR], 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0-2.7), including renal (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.8-2.4) and infectious (OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 2.3-3.1) complications. Patients with UD were also 4.3 times (95% CI, 3.1-5.8) more likely to die after surgery than were patients with CD. The ND group was slightly more likely than the CD group to experience any complication (OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.09-1.17) and death (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.4-1.8). The LOS and cost for UD patients were greater than for CD patients. On multivariable analysis, UD patients had a 30% increase in LOS and 23% increase in cost (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

The findings from the present study have demonstrated an increase in post-RC complications rates, hospital mortality, and hospital resource usage for patients with UD undergoing RC. UD might be a modifiable preoperative risk factor for post-RC morbidity and mortality. Further studies are needed to validate this association.

Effect of Diabetes Mellitus on Survival in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Concurrent diabetes has been linked with an increased risk of death in many cancers, but findings in pancreatic cancer have been inconsistent. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of diabetes on survival in patients with pancreatic cancer. Of 4, 463 original articles, 41 were included in the review; 29 studies with 33 risk estimates were included in the meta-analysis. In the overall comparison of patients with pancreatic cancer and diabetes with their nondiabetic counterparts, the former had significantly higher all-cause mortality (pooled HR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04-1.22). Subgroup analyses showed that diabetes was associated with poor survival in patients with resectable disease (HR: 1.37; 95% CI: 1.15-1.63) but not in those with unresectable disease (HR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.89-1.29). The HR (95% CI) was 1.52 (1.20-1.93) for patients with new-onset diabetes (≤ 2 years of diabetes duration) and 1.22 (0.83-1.80) for those with longstanding diabetes (> 2 years). Diabetes was associated with higher mortality overall in patients with pancreatic cancer. The effect of diabetes on overall survival was associated with the stages of tumor and the duration of diabetes.

Preoperative diabetes as a protective factor for pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The role of diabetes mellitus (DM) in pancreatic fistula (PF) or clinical relevant PF (CR-PF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD) is unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the relationship between DM and PF or CR-PF.

DATA SOURCES

Embase, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were searched systematically for relevant articles from January 2005 to June 2013. The selected studies that examined clinical risk factors of PF or CR-PF were included. We created pooled estimates for our outcomes using the random-effects model.

RESULTS

Sixteen observational clinical studies were included. Pooling of PF rates from ten studies revealed that DM was associated with a decreased risk of PF (P=0.01). CR-PF rates from 8 studies showed no significant difference between DM and control group (P=0.14).

CONCLUSIONS

DM is not a risk factor for PF in patients undergoing PD or PPPD. On the contrary, patients without DM are at a higher risk of PF because the pancreases in these patients have more fatty tissue and the pancreas is soft.

Survival among patients with pancreatic cancer and long-standing or recent-onset diabetes mellitus

PURPOSE

Long-standing diabetes is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer, and recent-onset diabetes in the several years before diagnosis is a consequence of subclinical pancreatic malignancy. However, the impact of diabetes on survival is largely unknown.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analyzed survival by diabetes status among 1,006 patients diagnosed from 1986 to 2010 from two prospective cohort studies: the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (HPFS). We validated our results among 386 patients diagnosed from 2004 to 2013 from a clinic-based case series at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI). We estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for death using Cox proportional hazards models, with adjustment for age, sex, race/ethnicity, smoking, diagnosis year, and cancer stage.

RESULTS

In NHS and HPFS, HR for death was 1.40 (95% CI, 1.15 to 1.69) for patients with long-term diabetes (> 4 years) compared with those without diabetes (P < .001), with median survival times of 3 months for long-term diabetics and 5 months for nondiabetics. Adjustment for a propensity score to reduce confounding by comorbidities did not change the results. Among DFCI patient cases, HR for death was 1.53 (95% CI, 1.07 to 2.20) for those with long-term diabetes compared with those without diabetes (P = .02), with median survival times of 9 months for long-term diabetics and 13 months for nondiabetics. Compared with nondiabetics, survival times were shorter for long-term diabetics who used oral hypoglycemics or insulin. We observed no statistically significant association of recent-onset diabetes (< 4 years) with survival.

CONCLUSION

Long-standing diabetes was associated with statistically significantly decreased survival among patients with pancreatic cancer enrolled onto three longitudinal studies.

Predictive factors for change of diabetes mellitus status after pancreatectomy in preoperative diabetic and nondiabetic patients

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to determine risk factors for exacerbation of diabetes mellitus (DM) after pancreatectomy.

METHODS

Medical records of 167 patients with benign and malignant pancreaticobiliary diseases who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy were retrospectively analyzed. DM was diagnosed by diabetic history or American Diabetes Association criteria. Worsened and improved DM after pancreatectomy was defined when treatment intensity or insulin/oral antidiabetic drug dosage increased or decreased, respectively, postoperatively. Long-standing DM was defined as a duration of >2 years.

RESULTS

In 76 preoperative diabetic patients, worsened and improved DM was observed postoperatively in 46 (60.5 %) and 9 (11.8 %) patients, respectively. In 91 preoperative nondiabetic patients, 22 (24.2 %) developed new-onset DM after pancreatectomy. Multivariate logistic analysis of the preoperative diabetic patients demonstrated long-standing DM and malignancy as independent predictors for postoperative worsened DM. No patients with long-standing DM or insulin treatment experienced improved DM after pancreatectomy. Multivariate logistic analysis of the preoperative nondiabetic patients showed body mass index of ≥25 and hard pancreatic texture as independent risk factors for new-onset postoperative DM.

CONCLUSIONS

These results may enable preoperative evaluation of risk factors for worsened or new-onset DM after pancreatectomy and may help plan intensive care for patients at a high risk of postoperative worsened DM.

Impact of diabetes mellitus on the outcome of pancreatic cancer

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has the potential to impact the pathogenesis, treatment, and outcome of pancreatic cancer. This study evaluates the impact of DM on pancreatic cancer survival.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study from the Veterans Affairs (VA) Central Cancer Registry (VACCR) for pancreatic cancer cases between 1995 and 2008. DM and no-DM cases were identified from comorbidity data. Univariate and multivariable analysis was performed. Multiple imputation method was employed to account for missing variables.

Results

Of 8,466 cases of pancreatic cancer DM status was known in 4728 cases that comprised this analysis. Males accounted for 97.7% cases, and 78% were white. Overall survival was 4.2 months in DM group and 3.6 months in the no-DM group. In multivariable analysis, DM had a HR = 0.91 (0.849–0.974). This finding persisted after accounting for missing variables using multiple imputations method with the HR in DM group of 0.93 (0.867–0.997).

Conclusions

Our data suggest DM is associated with a reduction in risk of death in pancreatic cancer. Future studies should be directed towards examining this association, specifically impact of DM medications on cancer outcome.

Pancreatic fistula after a pancreaticoduodenectomy for ductal adenocarcinoma and its association with morbidity: a multicentre study of the French Surgical Association

BACKGROUNDS

A pancreatic fistula (PF) is the most relevant complication after a pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This retrospective multicentric study attempts to elucidate the risk factors and complications of a PF in a large cohort of patients undergoing a PD for ductal adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

Using a survey tool, clinical data of 1325 patients undergoing a PD for ductal adenocarcinoma at 37 institutions, between January 2004 and December 2009, were collected. Peri-operative risk factors associated with PF and its association with morbidity and mortality were assessed. Morbidity and PF were graded according to the ISGPF (International Study group for pancreatic fistula) definition and the Dindo-Clavien classification.

RESULTS

Overall PF, mortality, morbidity and relaparotomy rates were 14.3%, 3.8%, 54.4% and 11.7%, respectively. PF occurred more frequently after a pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) compared with a pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) (16.8% vs. 10.4%; P = 0.0012). Independent risk factors for PF by multivariate analysis were absence of pre-operative diabetes (P = 0.0014), PJ reconstruction (P = 0.0035), soft pancreatic parenchyma (P < 0.0001) and low-volume centre (P = 0.0286). Clinically relevant PF (grade B and C) and severe complications (Dindo-Clavien grade IIIB, IV, V) were significantly more frequent after PJ than PG (71.6% vs. 28.3%; P = 0.030 and 24.8% vs. 19.1%; P = 0.015, respectively). Overall mortality and relaparotomy rates were similar after PG and PJ.

CONCLUSIONS

A soft pancreatic parenchyma, the absence of pre-operative diabetes, PJ and low-volume centre are independent risk factors for PF after PD for ductal adenocarcinoma. A significantly higher incidence and clinical severity of PF are associated with PJ.

The impact of perioperative blood glucose levels on pancreatic cancer prognosis and surgical outcomes: an evidence-based review

Although diabetes mellitus (DM) and pancreatic cancer (PC) are intricately linked, a comprehensive review addressing the impact of DM on PC prognosis and surgical outcomes is lacking. PubMed search was performed (1980-2012) using keywords "pancreatic cancer", "diabetes mellitus", "glucose intolerance", "pancreatic resection", "prognosis", and "post-operative outcomes". The search results were analyzed to determine the strength of association between DM and PC and to assess the impact of DM on PC prognosis and postoperative outcomes. Thirty-one studies involving 38,777 patients were identified. Patients with non-insulin-dependent DM have 1.5-2 fold increased relative risk of developing PC. Non-insulin-dependent DM is identified in 25.7% of patients with PC compared to 10.4% age-matched controls (95% confidence interval, 1.5-4.7; P < 0.0001). Patients with PC are more likely to have a diagnosis of new-onset DM than age-matched controls (14.7% vs 2.7%; P < 0.0001). Patients with PC with DM have a significantly lower overall survival than those without DM (14.4 vs 21.7 months; P < 0.001). The presence of DM significantly increases overall postoperative complication rates (45.6% vs 35.6%; P < 0.008). Patients with new-onset non-insulin-dependent DM are at a higher risk of developing PC and have a worse long-term survival and a higher rate of postoperative complications.

Factors associated with delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

The factors associated with delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after a pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) are not definitively known.

METHODS

From November 2011 through to May 2012, data were prospectively collected on 711 patients undergoing a pancreaticoduodenectomy or total pancreatectomy as part of the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pancreatectomy Demonstration Project. Bivariate and multivariate models were employed to determine the factors that predicted DGE.

RESULTS

In the 711 patients, the overall rate of DGE was 20.1%. In a bivariate analysis, intra-operative factors such as pylorus-preservation (47.1% versus 43.7%, P = 0.40), intra-operative drain placement (85.5%, versus 85.1%, P = 0.91) and an antecolic compared with a retrocolic gastrojejunostomy (60.1% versus 65.1%, P = 0.26) were not different between the DGE and no DGE groups. Pancreatic fistula formation (31.2% versus 10.1%), post-operative sepsis (21.7% versus 7.0%), organ space surgical site infection (SSI) (23.9% versus 7.9%), need for percutaneous drainage (23.0% versus 10.6%) and reoperation (10.6% versus 3.1%) were higher in patients with DGE (P < 0.0001). In a multivariable model, only pancreatic fistula, post-operative sepsis and reoperation were independently associated with DGE.

DISCUSSION

In this multicentre study, only post-operative complications were associated with DGE. Neither pylorus preservation nor route of enteric reconstruction (antecolic versus retrocolic) was associated with delayed gastric emptying.

Impact of preoperative diabetes mellitus on clinical outcome after pancreatectomy

PURPOSE

The goal of this study was to review published literature regarding the impact of preoperative diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients undergoing pancreatectomy.

METHODS

Ovid Medline(®) of a biomedical database was used on subjective literature research.

RESULTS

The prevalence of preoperative DM was 30.9-54.9% in patients with pancreatic cancer and was 5.3-10.8% in patients with chronic pancreatitis. There were few reports that described the relationship between preoperative DM status and postoperative morbidity/mortality, or long-term survival after pancreatectomy. The incidence of pancreatic fistula of Grade B and C [defined by International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula Definition (ISGPF)] was similar when comparing patients with and without preoperative DM. Furthermore, the incidence of death and various morbidities (e.g., infections, cardiovascular complications, clinically significant level of acute renal failure after pancreatectomy, and delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy) were not significantly different when comparing patients with and without preoperative DM. It is unclear whether preoperative DM has an impact on long-term survival after pancreatectomy, and the difficulty in assessing this parameter may be due to different definitions of DM, different surgical methods, and different comorbidities when comparing different studies.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence rates of postoperative mortality and morbidities including pancreatic fistula and renal failure of moderate to severe degrees were almost same between patients with and without preoperative DM. The influence of preoperative DM on long term survival after pancreatectomy should be elucidated by future studies under accurate and consistent definitions of DM.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer

Tumorigenesis of pancreatic cancer (PC) and the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) are emerging as intertwined pathways. As the operative morbidity and mortality of pancreatectomy has improved, incidence has increased and survival has remained mostly unchanged. The diagnosis of DM2 suggests pancreatic dysfunction and possible early carcinogenesis. DM2 is a significant comorbidity predicting worse outcomes in patients undergoing pancreatic resection as part of the treatment of PC. This article examines this phenomena and suggests possible approaches to screening and diagnosis.

Is the enteral replacement of externally drained pancreatic juice valuable after pancreatoduodenectomy?

PURPOSES

External drainage of pancreatic juice using a pancreatic duct stent following pancreatoduodenectomy is widely performed. We hypothesized that the replacement of externally drained pancreatic juice would help to prevent postoperative complications, including pancreatic fistulas.

METHODS

Sixty-four patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy between 2006 and 2008 were randomly assigned to either a pancreatic juice non-replacement (NR) or replacement (R) group. Eighteen patients were excluded from the analysis because they had unresectable tumors (n = 4), low pancreatic juice output (<100 ml) (n = 11) or for other reasons (n = 3). A total of 46 patients (NR = 24, R = 22) were included in the final analysis. The volume and amylase levels of externally drained pancreatic juice were analyzed on postoperative days 7 and 14. The incidence of postoperative complications, including pancreatic fistulas and delayed gastric emptying, was also assessed.

RESULTS

The total amylase secretion from the pancreatic tube on postoperative day 7 was significantly higher in the NR group compared with the R group (P = 0.044). The incidence of pancreatic fistulas (>Grade B) was also significantly higher in the NR group (33.3 vs. 9.1 %, P = 0.046).

CONCLUSIONS

In cases for whom external pancreatic juice drainage from a stent is applied following pancreaticojejunostomy, enteral replacement of externally drained pancreatic juice may reduce the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula formation.

Delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy in diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is one of the most troublesome complications of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the risk factors for pancreatic cancer. Moreover, several studies have shown that diabetic patients tend to have a high incidence of upper gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and DGE. Here, we compared the influence of DM on the incidence of DGE after PD.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed 67 cases of PD with pancreaticogastrostomy. These patients were categorized into the following two groups: the DM group included patients with DM, and the NDM group included patients without DM. The incidence of DGE was determined and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

In the DM group, 76.5%, 5.9% and 17.6% of the subjects developed classes A, B and C DGE, respectively; the corresponding values in the NDM group were 58%, 22%, and 20%. The incidence of DGE did not differ between the two groups (P < 0.2771).

CONCLUSIONS

DM does not accelerate DGE in patients who have undergone PD. Preoperative DM does not appear to play a key role in post-operative DGE after PD.