Ischemic complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy: incidence, prevention, and management. Ann Surg. 2009;249:111-117. [PMID: 19106685 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0b013e3181930249]

The findings of the contrast-enhanced CT and risk factors for hepatic infarction after pancreatoduodenectomy

PURPOSE

Hepatic infarction is a relatively rare life-threatening complication after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Computed tomography (CT) findings and risk factors for hepatic infarctions after PD were investigated.

METHODS

One hundred-fifty three patients who underwent contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) after PD between January 2011 and August 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Hepatic infarction was defined as the non-contrast enhanced area expanding to the liver surface without mass effect on CECT. The relationships between infarctions and preoperative laboratory data or surgical procedures using uni- and multivariate analyses were examined.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients showed 47 hepatic infarctions on CT. Infarctions most commonly appeared in segment 7 (S7) (17 lesions, 36.2%). Lesions were wedge-shaped in 12 patients and spread over multiple hepatic segments in 11 patients. Univariate analysis identified celiac artery (CA) or common hepatic artery (CHA) resection (p = 0.0029) and portal vein (PV) resection (p = 0.013) as risk factors for infarctions. CA or CHA resection (p = 0.038) remained as a significant factor after multivariate logistic analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic infarctions after PD were most frequently seen in S7 and PV penetrating sign was characteristic CT findings. CA or CHA resection or PV resection were revealed as risk factors for hepatic infarctions.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy following total occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery: a case report and literature review

Background

Patients with chronic occlusion of the celiac artery and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) are often asymptomatic, and occlusion may be caused by arteriosclerosis or median arcuate ligament compression. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is occasionally performed for patients with celiac artery occlusion; however, reports on patients with SMA occlusion are rare. We report a patient with cholangiocarcinoma and total atherosclerotic occlusion of the SMA without preoperative stenting or bypass.

Case presentation

A 73-year-old man suspected to have lower bile duct carcinoma was admitted to our hospital for further treatment. Three-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) showed a common bile duct tumor and total occlusion of the SMA with collateral circulation of the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). We performed a PD. During the operation, we used test clamping of the GDA, which revealed no bowel ischemia. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day (POD) 30. 3DCT on POD 98 and POD 307 showed development of collateral circulation between the IMA and SMA.

Conclusion

Here, we report the case of a patient with total occlusion of the SMA who subsequently underwent PD. 3DCT was instrumental in gathering vascular collateral information and thus we conclude that the assessment of collateral circulation before surgery is important.

Pancreatectomy with Hepatic Artery Resection for Pancreatic Head Cancer

BACKGROUND

To report our experiences and outcome of pancreatectomy with hepatic artery resection (PT-HAR) for advanced pancreatic head cancer.

METHODS

A retrospective study of clinical data from 14 patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma undergoing PT-HAR in a tertiary academic center between March 2010 and June 2017 was performed. Furthermore, a comparison in a match-pair analysis (1:3) with patients received standard pancreatectomy during the same period was conducted to evaluate the clinical outcome.

RESULTS

The PT-HAR cohort included pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 11) and total pancreatectomy (n = 3). Of them, six underwent portal/superior mesenteric vein resection and reconstruction and three underwent hepatic artery reconstruction. Four patients without arterial reconstruction developed liver perfusion failure. No perioperative mortality occurred, with a median postoperative hospital stay of 10.5 days (range 6-39). The median overall survival was 30 months (95% confidence interval 9.8-50.2 months), with the 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates of 81.8%, 63.6%, and 42.4%, respectively. The matched-pair data analysis showed no significant differences between PT-HAR and standard pancreatectomy, except that liver perfusion failure occurred more frequently after PT-HAR.

CONCLUSIONS

PT-HAR can be performed with acceptable morbidity, mortality, and survival for advanced pancreatic head cancer. Considering the potential risk of liver perfusion failure, only highly selected patients are eligible for PT-HAR without reconstruction.

Peer review of mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy in Australia

BACKGROUND

The data within the Australian and New Zealand Audit of Surgical Mortality (ANZASM) provides a unique opportunity to consider the contributing factors to perioperative deaths as determined by peer review. Consideration of the factors contributing to mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) can provide greater insight into how deaths can be prevented.

METHODS

ANZASM data from 1 January 2010 to 30 Jun 2017 was reviewed and all deaths following PD were selected for analysis. Assessor's determination of whether management could have been improved were reviewed and classified into groups of significant clinical events using thematic analysis with a data driven approach.

RESULTS

The study included 87 deaths reported to ANZASM after PD. Forty-two major complications were considered significant clinical events in 29/84 (35%) of patients. The assessor determined that there was a delay in recognising a significant complication in 18/84 (21%) of patients. In 14/84 (17%) of patients, ANZASM assessment questioned the decision to operate.

CONCLUSION

Multi-disciplinary decision making is strongly recommended when deciding which patients to treat with PD. Late recognition, and therefore delayed action to treat complications, in almost a quarter of deaths is a significant finding that warrants consideration for clinicians involved in the postoperative care of PD patients.

Is hepatic artery coil embolization useful in distal pancreatectomy with en bloc celiac axis resection for locally advanced pancreatic cancer?

BACKGROUND

The exact contribution of preoperative coil embolization in distal pancreatectomy with en bloc celiac axis resection (DP-CAR) for the prevention of ischemic liver complication is not fully elucidated.

METHODS

From January 2004 to July 2015, 31 patients underwent DP-CAR for the pancreatic body-tail cancer. Twenty-three patients received preoperative coil embolization. The characteristics and operative outcomes were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The median survival time and 1- and 3-year overall survival rates were 23.7 months and 74.2% and 34.4%, respectively. No 30-day mortality occurred in any of the patients. Postoperative liver infarction developed only in 8 patients (25.8%) even though 7 of 8 patients had undergone preoperative coil embolization. Tumor contact with the gastroduodenal artery (GDA)/proper hepatic artery (PHA) on preoperative multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT), tumor size, operative time, portal vein resection, and stenosis of the GDA/PHA after DP-CAR are related to liver infarction. Among them, postoperative stenosis of the GDA/PHA on MDCT, which was observed in all 8 patients with liver infarction, was the most closely related factor to postoperative liver infarction. Tumor contact with the GDA/PHA did not worsen the R0 resection rate or overall survival rate.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that preoperative coil embolization of the common hepatic artery is not useful in DP-CAR as long as GDA is completely preserved during surgery.

Stenosis of the celiac trunk is associated with anastomotic leak after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy

Transthoracic esophagectomy with gastric tube formation is the surgical treatment of choice for esophageal cancer. The surgical reconstruction induces changes of gastric microcirculation, which are recognized as potential risk factors of anastomotic leak. This prospective observational study investigates the association of celiac trunk (TC) stenosis with postoperative anastomotic leak. One hundred fifty-four consecutive patients with esophageal cancer scheduled for Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy were included. Preoperative staging computed tomography (CT) was used to identify TC stenosis. Any narrowing of the lumen due to atherosclerotic changes was classified as stenosis. Percentage of stenotic changes was calculated using the North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial formula. Multivariable analysis was used to identify possible risk factors for leak. The overall incidence of TC stenosis was 40.9%. Anastomotic leak was identified in 15 patients (9.7%). Incidence of anastomotic leak in patients with stenosis was 19.4% compared to 2.3% in patients without stenosis. Incidence of stenosis in patients with leak was 86.7% (13 of 15 patients) and significantly higher than 38.8% (54 of 139 patients) in patients without leak (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in median degree of TC stenosis (50.0% vs 39.4%; P = 0.032) in patients with and without leak. In the multivariable model, TC stenosis was an independent risk factor for anastomotic leak (odds ratio: 5.98, 95% CI: 1.58-22.61). TC stenosis is associated with postoperative anastomotic leak after Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy. Routine assessment of TC for possible stenosis is recommended to identify patients at risk.

Computational simulation of flow-induced arterial remodeling of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade associated with celiac artery stenosis

Arterial remodeling of the pancreaticoduodenal arcade, which enables collateral flow to the liver, spleen, and stomach, is a well-recognized clinical sign of celiac artery (CA) stenosis. However, the hemodynamic changes due to remodeling are poorly understood, despite their importance in surgical procedures such as pancreaticoduodenectomy. In this study, a framework to simulate remodeling of the arterial network following pathological flow alterations was developed and applied to investigate the hemodynamic characteristics of patients with CA stenosis. A one-dimensional-zero-dimensional cardiovascular model was used for blood flow simulation. After introducing CA stenosis into the normal network, arterial remodeling was simulated by iteratively changing the diameter of each artery until time-averaged wall shear stress reached its value under normal conditions. A representative case was simulated to validate the present framework, followed by simulation cases to investigate the impact of stenosis severity on remodeling outcome. A markedly dilated arcade was observed whose diameter agreed well with the corresponding values measured in subjects with CA stenosis, confirming the ability of the framework to predict arterial remodeling. A series of simulations clarified how the geometry and hemodynamics after remodeling change with stenosis severity. In particular, the arterial remodeling and resulting blood flow redistribution were found to maintain adequate organ blood supply regardless of stenosis severity. Furthermore, it was suggested that flow conditions in patients with CA stenosis could be estimated from geometric factors, namely, stenosis severity and arcade diameter, which can be preoperatively and non-invasively measured using diagnostic medical images.

Pancreatic cancer surgical management

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains a dismal prognosis and surgery is the only chance for cure. However, only few of the patients have localized tumor eligible for curative complete resection. Preoperative management and well-staging of the disease are the cornerstone for appropriate surgery and major issues to define the best therapeutic strategy. This review focuses on the surgical and optimal perioperative management of PDAC and summarizes updates data on the subject.

Leveraging Aberrant Vasculature in Celiac Artery Stenosis: The Arc of Buhler in Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Background: Celiac artery stenosis and occlusion have been described rarely in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), although it occurs relatively frequently in this group. An arterial connection between the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries, known as the Arc of Buhler, provides alternative flow to the celiac distribution once the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) is ligated in PD.

Case Presentation: A 69-year-old man, in whom pre- and intraoperative efforts to stent an occluded celiac artery failed, had sufficient retrograde flow from an unrecognized Arc of Buhler to maintain adequate hepatic arterial perfusion after ligation of the GDA during a PD.

Conclusions: Although there are several case reports and case series regarding the management of celiac stenosis in PD, the impact of an Arc of Buhler variant in this setting has been rarely reported. This case report demonstrates the ability of an intact Arc of Buhler to maintain adequate hepatic perfusion after ligation of the GDA and avoid the potential morbidity of a hepatic artery bypass procedure.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy complicated by Budd-Chiari syndrome: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD)-induced morbidity, consisting mainly of the pancreatic fistula and its hemorrhagic and infectious consequences, is well described in the literature, in terms of its definition, risk factors, preventive measures, and standardized management of complications. However, some life-threatening complications remain atypical and undescribed.

CASE SUMMARY

We report here the case of a 69-year-old patient with Budd-Chiari syndrome that occurred after arterial embolization of postpancreatectomy hemorrhage. Diagnosis was established with biological findings (i.e., acute liver failure) and radiological findings (i.e., compressive hematoma of the retrohepatic vena cava). Emergency surgical revision was performed to evacuate the hematoma. The postoperative course was uneventful, with rapid recovery of liver function. To our knowledge, post-PD Budd-Chiari syndrome has never been described in the literature.

CONCLUSION

Acute liver failure in early post-PD should prompt investigation to rule out Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Acute median arcuate ligament syndrome after pancreaticoduodenectomy

Background

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) can cause severe complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Most of the reported cases of MALS have been diagnosed perioperatively and can be treated efficiently by interventional radiology or division of the median acute ligament (MAL) fibers.

Case report

A 69-year-old woman underwent PD with resection of the SMV for pancreatic head cancer. Intraoperative exploration showed normal anatomy of the celiac trunk. Intraoperative digital palpation revealed normal pulsation of the common hepatic artery after resection of the gastroduodenal artery. On postoperative day (POD) 3, her liver function tests were abnormal, and bloody fluids were found in the drain. Abdominal CT showed necrosis of the pancreatic body and ischemia in the liver secondary to MALS which was not detected in the preoperative CT. Interventional radiology was tried first but failed. Division of the MAL fibers markedly increased the blood flow in the hepatic artery. Resection of the remnant pancreas and spleen was also performed simultaneously. Abdominal CT on POD 20 showed re-occlusion of the celiac artery. She experienced rupture of the gastrojejunostomy site, severe hepatic cytolysis, and choledochojejunostomy stricture thereafter.

Conclusions

This is the third case of MALS that has developed acutely after PD. MALS can cause refractory complications even after MAL release.

An innovative way of managing coeliac artery stenosis during pancreaticoduodenectomy

Coeliac artery stenosis (CAS) is rarely of consequence owing to rich collateral supply from the superior mesenteric artery via the pancreatic head. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) in CAS disrupts these collaterals, and places the liver, stomach and spleen at risk of ischaemia. A 56-year-old man presented with a 3-week history of obstructive jaundice. Computed tomography revealed an operable periampullary tumour with CAS due to compression by the median arcuate ligament with multiple collaterals in the pancreatic head and a prominent gastroduodenal artery (GDA). Following unsuccessful coeliac axis endovascular stenting, a PD was performed. Intraoperative median arcuate ligament release failed to restore good flow in the common hepatic artery (CHA) and splenic artery (SpA) A decision was made to use the left gastric artery (LGA) for arterial reconstruction, disconnect it from the stomach with its origin intact and anastomose it to the supracoeliac aorta. Doppler ultrasonography with a GDA clamp confirmed good filling of the CHA and SpA via the LGA. The GDA was ligated and the PD completed. The patient had an uneventful recovery except for a biochemical pancreatic leak and was discharged on day 10. CAS during PD (confirmed by a decrease in CHA flow with a GDA clamp) requires an additional procedure to restore blood flow to the liver, stomach and spleen. Anastomosing the LGA to the supracoeliac aorta is a simple reconstruction technique for achieving this.

Collaterals management during pancreatoduodenectomy in patients with celiac axis stenosis: A systematic review of the literature

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Celiac axis stenosis (CAS) represents an uncommon and typically innocuous condition. However, when a pancreatic resection is required, a high risk for upper abdominal organs ischemia is observed. In presence of collaterals, such a risk is minimized if their preservation is realized. The aim of the present study is to systematically review the literature with the intent to address the routine management of collateral arteries in the case of CAS patients requiring pancreatoduodenectomy.

METHODS

A systematic search was done in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, using "celiac axis stenosis" AND "pancreatoduodenectomy" as MeSH terms. Seventy-four articles were initially screened: eventually, 30 articles were identified (n = 87).

RESULTS

The main cause of CAS was median arcuate ligament (MAL) (n = 31; 35.6%), followed by atherosclerosis (n = 20; 23.0%). CAS was occasionally discovered during the Whipple procedure in 15 (17.2%) cases. Typically, MAL was divided during surgery (n = 24/31; 77.4%). In the great majority of cases (n = 83; 95.4%), vascular abnormalities involved the pancreatoduodenal arteries (i.e., dilatation, arcade, channels, aneurysms). Collateral arteries were typically preserved, being divided or reconstructed in only 14 (16.1%) cases, respectively. Severe ischemic complications were reported in six (6.9%) patients, 20.0% of whom were reported in patients with preoperatively unknown CAS (p-value 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

A correct pre-operative evaluation of anatomical conditions as well as a correct surgical planning represent the paramount targets in CAS patients with arterial collaterals. Vascular flow must be always safeguarded preserving/reconstructing the collaterals or resolving the CAS, with the final intent to avoid dreadful intra- and post-operative complications.

Median arcuate ligament syndrome and arterial anastomotic bleeding inducing hepatic artery thrombosis after liver transplantation: A case report

RATIONALE

Median arcuate ligament (MAL) may compress the coeliac trunk inducing median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS). MALS is a risk factor for hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) in liver transplant recipients.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A thin female complained about upper abdominal pain for two months.

DIAGNOSES

The patient was diagnosed as primary biliary cirrhosis.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient received two liver transplantations. During the first liver transplantation, the hepatic artery (HA) pulsations were normal. Doppler B ultrasonography showed normal blood flow in the HA in the first week. A 4 cm hematoma was detected in the first porta hepatis. On the ninth day, the hematoma had increased to 9 cm along with development of HAT. Exploratory laparotomy was performed. Bleeding at the site of arterial anastomosis was considered to be the reason for the hematoma. Doppler imaging revealed no blood flow in the liver. Computed tomography angiography demonstrated MALS. Salvage liver transplantation combined with dissection of MAL was performed. The maximum velocity of HA increased to 87 cm/s.

OUTCOMES

The patient was discharged from the hospital 17 days after the second transplantation. At discharge, the liver function was normal and Doppler showed good blood flow in the HA.

LESSONS

MALS can cause HAT after liver transplantation. Before the liver transplantation, we should use Doppler B ultrasonography and sagittal CT imaging to judge whether the patient is with MALS. Also, before arterial anastomosis in liver transplantation is conducted, we should observe the impacts on the HA caused by pre-blocking gastroduodenal artery, which determines if we are supposed to do MAL dissection or bridge HA with aorta.

One visceral artery may be enough; successful pancreatectomy in a patient with total occlusion of the celiac and superior mesenteric arteries

Background

The anatomic variations of the visceral arteries are not uncommon. The liver arterial blood supply shows 50% variability between humans, with the most common anatomy being one hepatic artery arising from the celiac trunk and one pancreatico-duodenal arcade between the celiac trunk and the superior mesenteric artery. Occlusion of one artery are mostly asymptomatic but may become clinically relevant when surgery of the liver, bile duct or the pancreas is required. If these pathologies are not reversible, an oncologic pancreatic head resection cannot be performed.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 64-year-old Caucasian female patient with a locally advanced, resectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreas with complete atherosclerotic occlusion of the celiac trunk and the superior mesenteric artery. This vascular anomaly was missed on the preoperative imaging and became known postoperatively. A collateral circulation from a hypertrophic inferior mesenteric artery to the celiac trunk and the superior mesenteric artery compensated the blood supply to the visceral organs. The postoperative course was complicated by an elevation of the transaminases AST/ALT, which normalized under conservative treatment with alprostadil (prostavasin™) and anticoagulation, since angiographic recanalization failed. The patient recovered fully and was discharged at the 14th postoperative day. Two years later, she required endovascular repair of an aortic rupture during which the inferior mesenteric artery was preserved.

Conclusion

This case underlines the natural potential of the human body to adapt to chronic arterial malperfusion by creating a collateral circulation and supports the need for adequate preoperative imaging, including a proper arterial phase before upper abdominal surgery.

Incidence and management of arterial injuries during pancreatectomy

PURPOSE

The incidence of intraoperative arterial injury during pancreatectomy is not well described. This study aims to evaluate the incidence, management, and outcome of arterial injuries during pancreatectomy.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 1535 consecutive patients undergoing pancreatectomy between 2006 and 2016 at Oslo University Hospital. The type of arterial injury and potential contributing factors were analyzed. Short-term outcomes were compared between patients with arterial injury and patients undergoing a planned arterial resection due to tumor involvement.

RESULTS

Arterial injury was diagnosed in 14 patients (incidence 0.91%), while planned arterial resection was performed in 22 patients. The injuries were located in the superior mesenteric artery (n = 5), right hepatic artery (n = 5), common hepatic artery (n = 2), left hepatic artery (n = 1), and celiac trunk (n = 2). The artery was reconstructed in all except one patient. In 11 patients with injury, peripancreatic inflammation, aberrant arterial anatomy, close relationship between tumor and injured artery, or a combination of the three were found. Median estimated blood loss was 1100 ml in both groups. Rate of severe complications (≥ Clavien grade IIIa), comprehensive complication index, and 90-day mortality for patients with intraoperative arterial injury vs planned arterial resection were 43 vs 45% (p = 0.879), median 35.9 vs 21.8 (p = 0.287), and 14.3 vs 4.5% (p = 0.551), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Arterial injury during pancreatectomy is an infrequent and manageable complication. Early recognition and primary repair in order to restore arterial liver perfusion may improve outcome. However, the morbidity is high and comparable to patients undergoing a planned arterial resection.

Calcification score versus arterial stenosis grading: comparison of two CT-based methods for risk assessment of anastomotic leakage after esophagectomy and gastric pull-up

Purpose

Anastomotic leakage is a major surgical complication following esophagectomy and gastric pull-up. Specific risk factors such as celiac trunk (TC) stenosis and high calcification score of the aorta have been identified, but no data are available on their relative prognostic values. This retrospective study aimed to compare and evaluate calcification score versus stenosis quantification with regards to prognostic impact on anastomotic leakage.

Patients and methods

Preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans of 164 consecutive patients with primary esophageal cancer were evaluated by two radiologists to apply a calcification score (0–3 scale) assessing the aorta, the celiac axis and the right and left postceliac arteries. Concurrently, the presence and degree of stenosis of TC and superior mesenteric artery were recorded for stenosis quantification.

Results

Anastomotic leakage was noted in 14/164 patients and 12/14 showed stenosis of TC (n=11). The presence of TC stenosis was found to have a significant impact on anastomotic healing (p=0.004). The odds ratio for the prediction of anastomotic leakage by the degree of stenosis was 1.04 (95% CI, 1.02–1.07). Ten of 14 patients had aortic calcification scores of 1 or 2, but calcification scores of the aorta, the celiac axis and the right and left postceliac arteries did not correlate with the corresponding TC stenosis values and showed no influence on patient outcome as defined by the occurrence of anastomotic insufficiency (p=0.565, 0.855, 0.518 and 1.000, respectively). Inter-reader reliability of computed tomography analysis and absolute agreement on calcium scoring was mostly over 90%. No significant differences in preoperative comorbidities and patient characteristics were found between those with and without anastomotic leakage.

Conclusion

Measurement of TC stenosis in preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans proved to be more reliable than calcification scores in predicting anastomotic leakage and should, therefore, be used in the risk assessment of patients undergoing esophagectomy and gastric pull-up.

Elucidating early CT after pancreatico-duodenectomy: a primer for radiologists

Abstract

Pancreatico-duodenectomy (PD) represents the standard surgical treatment for resectable malignancies of the pancreatic head, distal common bile duct, periampullary region and duodenum, and is also performed to manage selected benign tumours and refractory chronic pancreatitis. Despite improved surgical techniques and acceptable mortality, PD remains a technically demanding, high-risk operation burdened with high morbidity (complication rates 40–50% of patients). Multidetector computed tomography (CT) represents the mainstay modality to rapidly investigate the postoperative abdomen, and to provide a consistent basis for an appropriate choice between conservative, interventional or surgical treatment. However, radiologists require familiarity with the surgically altered anatomy, awareness of expected imaging appearances and possible complications to correctly interpret early post-PD CT studies. This paper provides an overview of surgical indications and techniques, discusses risk factors and clinical manifestations of the usual postsurgical complications, and suggests appropriate techniques and indications for early postoperative CT imaging. Afterwards, the usual, normal early post-PD CT findings are presented, including transient fluid, pneumobilia, delayed gastric emptying, identification of pancreatic gland remnant and of surgical anastomoses. Finally, several imaging examples review the most common and some unusual complications such as pancreatic fistula, bile leaks, abscesses, intraluminal and extraluminal haemorrhage, and acute pancreatitis.

Teaching Points

• Pancreatico-duodenectomy (PD) is a technically demanding surgery burdened with high morbidity (40–50%).

• Multidetector CT is the mainstay technique to investigate suspected complications following PD.

• Interpreting post-PD CT requires knowledge of surgically altered anatomy and expected findings.

• CT showing collection at surgical site supports clinico-biological diagnosis of pancreatic fistula.

• Other complications include biliary leaks, haemorrhage, abscesses and venous thrombosis.

Celiac axis stenosis due to median arcuate ligament compression in a patient who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy; intraoperative assessment of hepatic arterial flow using Doppler ultrasonography: a case report

Background

Celiac axis stenosis due to compression by the median arcuate ligament has been reported in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy; it leads to the development of major collateral pathways that feed the hepatic artery. Dividing these important collaterals during pancreaticoduodenectomy can cause ischemic complications which may lead to a high mortality rate. To prevent these complications, it is necessary to assess intrahepatic arterial flow.

Case presentation

A 71-year-old Japanese man with anorexia was referred to us for the treatment of alcoholic chronic pancreatitis. Computed tomography revealed a pancreatic head tumor with a calculus, associated with the dilatation of the main pancreatic duct and intrahepatic bile duct. Three-dimensional imaging demonstrated focal narrowing in the proximal celiac axis due to median arcuate ligament compression and a prominent gastroduodenal artery that fed the common hepatic artery. The preoperative diagnosis was alcoholic chronic pancreatitis with common bile duct obstruction and celiac axis stenosis due to median arcuate ligament compression. Pancreaticoduodenectomy with median arcuate ligament release was scheduled. Before the division of the median arcuate ligament, the peak flow velocity and resistive index of his intrahepatic artery measured with Doppler ultrasonography decreased from 37.7 cm/second and 0.510, respectively, to 20.6 cm/second and 0.508 respectively, when his gastroduodenal artery was clamped. However, these values returned to baseline levels after the division of the median arcuate ligament. These findings suggested that pancreaticoduodenectomy could be performed safely. Our patient was discharged on postoperative day 17 without significant complications.

Conclusion

The intraoperative quantitative evaluation of intrahepatic arterial blood flow using Doppler ultrasonography was useful in a patient who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy, who had celiac axis stenosis due to compression by the median arcuate ligament.

Major pancreatic resections: normal postoperative findings and complications

Objectives

(1) To illustrate and describe the main types of pancreatic surgery; (2) to discuss the normal findings after pancreatic surgery; (3) to review the main complications and their radiological findings.

Background

Despite the decreased postoperative mortality, morbidity still remains high resulting in longer hospitalisations and greater costs. Imaging findings following major pancreatic resections can be broadly divided into “normal postoperative alterations” and real complications. The former should regress within a few months whereas complications may be life-threatening and should be promptly identified and treated.

Imaging findings

CT is the most effective postoperative imaging technique. MRI and fluoroscopy are used less often and only in specific cases such as assessing the gastro-intestinal function or the biliary tree. The most common normal postoperative findings are pneumobilia, perivascular cuffing, fluid collections, lymphadenopathy, acute anastomotic oedema and stranding of the peri-pancreatic/mesenteric fat. Imaging depicts the anastomoses and the new postoperative anatomy. It can also demonstrate early and late complications: pancreatic fistula, haemorrhage, delayed gastric emptying, hepatic infarction, acute pancreatitis of the remnant, porto-mesenteric thrombosis, abscess, biliary anastomotic leaks, anastomotic stenosis and local recurrence.

Conclusions

Radiologists should be aware of surgical procedures, postoperative anatomy and normal postoperative imaging findings to better detect complications and recurrent disease.

Teaching Points

• Morbidity after pancreatic resections is high.

• CT is the most effective postoperative imaging technique.

• Imaging depicts the anastomoses and the new postoperative anatomy.

• Pancreatic fistula is the most common complication after partial pancreatic resection.

Preoperative imaging and pathologic classification for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

The management of patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET), whether hormonally secretory or not, is multidisciplinary and often multimodal. Surgical treatment plays a central role because complete resection is the only potentially curative treatment. The choice of the therapeutic plan for a PNET requires precise localization of the primary tumor (which may sometimes be multiple in case of genetic predisposition), confirmation of the diagnosis of PNET, a search for metastases (mainly hepatic), and identification of the main histoprognostic factors. This update focuses on the WHO 2017 histological classification and recent innovations in the preoperative assessment of PNET using conventional and isotopic imaging. The aim is to not only allow the mapping of primary and metastatic lesions but also to predict tumor aggressiveness.

Imaging of post-operative pancreas and complications after pancreatic adenocarcinoma resection

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. With surgical resection being the only definitive treatment, improvements in technique has led to an increase in number of candidates undergoing resection by inclusion of borderline resectable disease patients to the clearly resectable group. Post-operative complications associated with pancreaticoduodenectomy and distal pancreatectomy include delayed gastric emptying, anastomotic failures, fistula formation, strictures, abscess, infarction, etc. The utility of dual-phase CT with multiplanar reconstruction and 3D rendering is increasingly recognized as a tool for the assessment of complications associated with vascular resection and reconstruction such as hemorrhage, pseudoaneurysm, vascular thrombosis, and ischemia. Prompt recognition of the complications and distinction from benign post-operative findings such as hepatic steatosis and mesenteric fat necrosis on imaging plays a key role in helping decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with surgery. We discuss, with case examples, some of such common and uncommon findings on imaging to familiarize the abdominal radiologists evaluating post-operative imaging in both acute and chronic post-operative settings.

Rare, Uncommon, and Unusual Complications After Pancreaticoduodenal Resection

Complications after pancreaticoduodenal resection occur in at least 30% of patients. Most are a direct result of an intraoperative event, dissection, or anastomoses which account for the most serious morbidities, sepsis, pseudoaneurysms, and hemorrhage. Rarely, complications are due to the systemic impact of the procedure even if the procedure itself was unremarkable. Rare systemic complications after PDR (Transfusion transmitted Babesiosis, pituitary apoplexy, and TRALI) and a number of uncommon and unusual other complications are discussed. Pancreaticoduodenal resection is a significant operation with serious consequences. Decisions on selection of candidates and safe operations should be thoughtful and always in surgeons' minds.

Incidence and Impact of Variant Celiacomesenteric Vascularization and Vascular Stenosis on Pancreatic Surgery Outcomes: Personal Experience

Ischemic complications after pancreatic surgery can raise postoperative mortality from 4 to 83 per cent. Variants in vascular anatomy play a major role in determining such complications, but they have been only occasionally reported in the literature. We retrospectively analyzed 100 records of patients consecutively treated between January 2011 and December 2013 for resectable malignant diseases who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or total pancreatectomy to state the statistical impact of anatomical vascular variations in surgical outcomes (mean surgical timing, mean blood loss during surgery, and postoperative major complications onset) and to state whether preoperatively undetected vascular anomalies (VA) can raise the risk of postoperative ischemic complications. PD was performed in 89 patients, requiring multiorgan resections in three cases and total pancreatectomy was performed in 11 cases, which was associated to splenectomy in four patients. Incidence of VA was 25/100 (25%), whereas in 18/25 cases (72%) they were detected by preoperative radiologic setting. Their presence in patients undergoing PD significantly raised mean surgical timing ( P = 0.003) and increased mean blood loss ( P < 0.0001). Preoperatively undetected VA resulted in a major risk of postoperative acute liver ischemia ( P = 0.008). Celiacomesenteric aberrant anatomy was proven to be related to an increased risk of intraoperative complications. If undetected preoperatively, they can be associated with anastomotic complications and liver failure. Maximal efforts must be done to detect and to preserve vascular anatomy of celiacomesenteric district.

Outcome of concomitant resection of the replaced right hepatic artery in pancreaticoduodenectomy without reconstruction

PURPOSE

It has been reported that preoperative embolization or intraoperative reconstruction of the replaced right hepatic artery (rRHA) in order to secure the arterial blood flow to the liver and biliary tract are useful for patients who have undergone pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with concomitant rRHA resection. In this study, the feasibility of concomitant resection of rRHA in PD without preoperative embolization or intraoperative reconstruction were retrospectively evaluated with a particular focus on postoperative complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 323 consecutive patients who underwent PD.

RESULTS

In 51 patients (15.8%), an rRHA was detected. Nine of 51 patients underwent combined rRHA resection during PD. Eight patients showed tumor abutment, and one patient had accidental intraoperative damage of the rRHA. Although there were no cases of bilioenteric anastomotic failure, a hepatic abscess occurred in one patient. This patient was treated with percutaneous transhepatic abscess drainage and was cured immediately without suffering sepsis. Postoperative complications of Clavien-Dindo classification ≥ IIIa were found in three patients, and R0 resection was achieved in six. Surgical outcomes showed no significant differences between the rRHA-resected and non-resected groups. Moreover, there were no significant differences in laboratory data related to liver functions between the rRHA-resected and non-resected groups before surgery and on postoperative days 1, 3, 5, and 7.

CONCLUSIONS

Simple resection of the rRHA following an unintended or accidental injury during PD is not associated with severe morbidity and should be considered as an alternative to a technically difficult reconstruction.

Pancreatectomy for pancreatic incidentaloma: What are the risks?

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic incidentalomas (PI) are nowadays common but the benefit-risk balance of surgery remains difficult to determine.

METHODS

Monocentric retrospective study of 881 pancreatectomies comparing resected PI with symptomatic lesion. Univariate and multivariate (MV) analyses were done to identify risk factors of malignancy in PI undergoing surgery.

RESULTS

Overall, 32% of pancreatectomies were performed for PI. Median size of PI was 30 mm (vs 28 mm; p = 0.15) and 49% were cystic (vs 42%; p = 0.197). Resected PI were mostly located in distal pancreas (61% vs 34%; p < 0.001), less frequently malignant (49% vs 59%; p = 0.004). PNETs were more frequent in PI (50% vs 21%; p < 0.001). Distal pancreatectomy (36% vs 23%; p < 0.001) or parenchyma-sparing surgery (34% vs 13%; p < 0.001) were more frequently performed for PI. Overall mortality (1.1% vs 1.2%) and morbidity (70% vs 68%) were not significantly different between both groups. Severe morbidity was lower for PI (15% vs 22%; p = 0.007). In multivariate analysis, age>55 years (HR 6.14; p < 0.001), size >20 mm (HR:26.7; p < 0.001) and biliary dilatation (HR 29.9; p = 0.027) were independent risk factors of malignancy and, when associated, the likelihood of malignancy was above 90%.

CONCLUSIONS

PI represent about 30% of indications for pancreatectomy and when resected after careful selection are malignant in 50% of cases.

Impact of pancreaticoduodenal arcade dilation on postoperative outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of pancreaticoduodenal arcade (PDA) dilation on postoperative outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

Consecutive patients submitted to pancreaticoduodenectomy between 2008 and 2016 underwent preoperative multi-detector computed tomography, the images of which were re-reviewed. The patients were categorized according to the grade of PDA dilation into 3 groups (remarkably-dilated, slightly-dilated, and non-dilated).

RESULTS

Among the 443 patients, 25 patients (5.6%) were categorized as remarkably-dilated PDA and 24 patients (5.4%) as having slightly-dilated PDA. The patients with remarkably-dilated PDA had undergone pancreaticoduodenectomy with additional surgical maneuvers to restore celiac arterial flow as needed, and had an uneventful postoperative recovery relative to those with non-dilated PDA. In contrast, patients with slightly-dilated PDA underwent only pancreaticoduodenectomy without additional surgical maneuvers, and developed clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) more frequently than those with non-dilated PDA (42% vs. 21%, P = 0.021). Moreover, slightly-dilated PDA was shown to be an independent risk factor for clinically relevant POPF (odds ratio = 2.719, P = 0.042).

DISCUSSION

For patients with PDA dilation requiring pancreaticoduodenectomy, a preoperative evaluation of the vascular anatomy, intraoperative assessment of the celiac arterial flow, and additional surgical maneuvers might be necessary to reduce the risk of postoperative complications.

Substantial atherosclerotic celiac axis stenosis is a new risk factor for biliary fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Biliary fistula (BF) is a major surgical complication that can develop after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) whose risk factors remain unclear. Substantial atherosclerotic celiac axis stenosis (SACAS) has not been reported to be one of them.

METHODS

Data from 507 patients undergoing PD between Jan 1, 2013 and Dec 31, 2015 were retrospectively collected. Clinical data from patients with SACAS were studied, and the independent risk factors for BF underwent multivariate logistic regression analysis, including SACAS.

RESULTS

BF occurred in 22 (4.3%) patients, and the incidence of BF was significantly higher in patients with SACAS than in those without it (27.0% vs 2.6%, P < .001). In the univariate analysis, BF was significantly related to SACAS, older age, a higher ASA score, history of coronary disease, greater blood loss and RBC transfusion during surgery, smaller CBD diameter and higher POD 1 BUN level. The multivariate analysis showed that only SACAS (OR 8.91, 95% CI 2.36-33.69, P = .001), older age (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01-1.15, P = .028) and smaller preoperative CBD (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.69-0.92, P = .002) were independent risk factors for postoperative BF.

CONCLUSION

Older age and a smaller preoperative CBD diameter are independent risk factors for BF after PD, which is consistent with the literature. In addition, SACAS is a new independent risk factor for BF. For patients with SACAS, postoperative drainage should be carefully managed to precisely observe the potential for BF.

How to deal with hepatic artery injury during pancreaticoduodenectomy. A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Operative injury to the hepatic artery is a serious complication of pancreaticoduodenectomy and guidelines to manage this complication are lacking.

METHODS

A systematic search performed in PubMed database identified eleven studies overall including 20 patients having sustained injury to the hepatic artery during pancreaticoduodenectomy (n=18) or total pancreatectomy (n=2). One further unpublished personal observation following pancreaticoduodenectomy was also included.

RESULTS

Sixteen of 21 patients (76%) experienced serious complications including liver necrosis/abscess (n=14), acute liver failure (n=3), and biliary anastomotic dehiscence (n=6). Eleven patients (52%) were reoperated and 5 patients died (24%). Arterial injury was recognized and repaired immediately in five patients, four recovering uneventfully and one dying from acute liver failure (20%). In contrast delayed or conservative treatment in 16 patients was associated with serious early morbidity in 15 patients (94%), leading to death in 4 patients and late biliary complications in four others.

CONCLUSIONS

Accidental interruption of arterial flow to the liver during pancreaticoduodenectomy often results in serious short and long-term consequences. Immediate restoration of arterial flow is indicated whenever technically feasible and may prevent early life-threatening complications as well as late biliary stenosis.

Preoperative imaging and prediction of oesophageal conduit necrosis after oesophagectomy for cancer

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal conduit necrosis following oesophagectomy is a rare but life-threatening complication. The present study aimed to assess the impact of coeliac axis stenosis on outcomes after oesophagectomy for cancer.

METHODS

The study included consecutive patients who had an Ivor Lewis procedure with curative intent for middle- and lower-third oesophageal cancer at two tertiary referral centres. All patients underwent preoperative multidetector CT with arterial phase to detect coeliac axis stenosis. The coeliac artery was classified as normal, with extrinsic stenosis due to a median arcuate ligament or with intrinsic stenosis caused by atherosclerosis.

RESULTS

Some 481 patients underwent an Ivor Lewis procedure. Of these, ten (2·1 per cent) developed oesophageal conduit necrosis after surgery. Coeliac artery evaluation revealed a completely normal artery in 431 patients (91·5 per cent) in the group without conduit necrosis and in one (10 per cent) with necrosis (P < 0·001). Extrinsic stenosis of the coeliac artery due to a median arcuate ligament was found in two patients (0·4 per cent) without conduit necrosis and five (50 per cent) with necrosis (P < 0·001). Intrinsic stenosis of the coeliac artery was found in 11 (2·3 per cent) and eight (80 per cent) patients respectively (P < 0·001). Eight patients without (1·7 per cent) and five (50 per cent) with conduit necrosis had a single and thin left gastric artery (P < 0·001).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that oesophageal conduit necrosis after oesophagectomy for cancer may be due to pre-existing coeliac axis stenosis.

Vascular challenges from pancreatoduodenectomy in the setting of coeliac artery stenosis

Coeliac artery stenosis due to median arcuate ligament compression or atherosclerotic disease is a frequently unrecognised challenge to recovery after pancreatoduodenectomy. The described case illustrates management with intraoperative superior mesenteric artery to hepatic artery bypass graft that led to haemorrhagic challenges postoperatively but ultimately a good recovery. Aspects of preoperative diagnosis, preoperative intervention and intraoperative management options are reviewed. Surgeons need to possess these tools to prevent complications from coeliac artery stenosis when pancreatoduodenectomy is required.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy: Secondary stenting of the celiac trunk after inefficient median arcuate ligament release and reoperation as an alternative to simultaneous hepatic artery reconstruction

In patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), unrecognized hemodynamically significant celiac axis (CA) stenosis impairs hepatic arterial flow by suppressing the collateral pathways supplying arterial flow from the superior mesenteric artery and leads to serious hepatobiliary complications due to liver and biliary ischemia, with a high rate of mortality. CA stenosis is usually due to an extrinsic compression by a previously asymptomatic median arcuate ligament (MAL). MAL is diagnosed by computerized tomography in about 10% of the candidates for PD, but only half are found to be hemodynamically significant during the gastroduodenal artery clamping test with Doppler assessment, which is mandatory before any resection. MAL release is usually efficient to restore an adequate liver blood inflow and prevent ischemic complications. In cases of failure in MAL release, postponed PD with secondary stenting of the CA and reoperation for PD should be considered as an alternative to immediate hepatic artery reconstruction, which involves the risk of postoperative thrombosis of the arterial reconstruction. We recently used this two-stage strategy in a patient undergoing surgery for pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Arterial complication of irreversible electroporation procedure for locally advanced pancreatic cancer

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a non-thermal ablation technique used especially in locally advanced pancreatic carcinomas that are considered surgically unresectable. We present the first case of acute superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion secondary to pancreatic IRE procedure that has not been reported before in the literature. A 66-year-old man underwent neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. IRE procedure was applied to the patient during laparotomy under general anesthesia. After finishing the procedure, an acute intestinal ischemia was detected. A conventional vascular angiography was performed and a metallic stent was successfully placed to the SMA and blood flow was maintained. It is important to be careful in such cases of tumor involvement of SMA when evaluating for IRE procedure of pancreatic tumor.

Acute median arcuate ligament syndrome after pancreaticoduodenectomy

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) has been reported in 2–7.6 % of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Most of the reported cases of MALS have been diagnosed perioperatively and treated radiologically or surgically before or during PD. MALS can have an acute postoperative onset after PD even if all preoperative and intraoperative evaluations are normal particularly in young patients.

In this report, we present a second case of severe hepatic cytolysis secondary to MALS that developed acutely and the first patient who required acute division of the median arcuate ligament after PD.

[Liver abscess]

Liver abscess is a rare and severe infection. Incidence increases because of aging of population, advances in liver and biliary surgery including liver transplantation, and immunodeficiency factors. Diagnosis depends mainly on imaging and needle aspiration for microbiological identification. Treatment is based on antibiotics, percutaneous or surgical drainage, and control of the primary source.

Endovascular Stenting for Non-Traumatic Celiac Artery Stenosis Following Pancreatoduodenectomy

Postoperative celiac artery stenosis (CAS) rarely occurs in the absence of vascular injury or pseudoaneurysm after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Because of its low incidence, the optimal treatment for non-traumatic postoperative CAS is unknown. Here, we show a case of CAS possibly due to exacerbated median arcuate ligament compression after PD. The purpose of this report is to describe this rare complication and its successful endovascular treatment with review of literatures.

Preoperative oral immunonutrition versus standard preoperative oral diet in well nourished patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is still associated to high morbility, especially due to pancreatic surgery related and infectious complications: many risk factors have already been advocated. Aim of this study is to evaluate the role of preoperative oral immunonutrition in well nourished patients scheduled for pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

From February 2014 to June 2015, 54 well nourished patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy were enrolled for 5 days preoperative oral immunonutrition. A series of consecutive patients submitted to the same intervention in the same department, with preoperative standard oral diet, was matched 1:1. For analysis demographic, pathological and surgical variables were considered. Mortality rate, overall postoperative morbility, pancreatic fistula, post pancreatectomy haemorrhage, delayed gastric emptying, infectious complications and length of hospital stay were described for each groups. Chi squared test, Fisher's Exact test and Student's T test were used for comparison. Differences were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05. Statistics was performed using a freeware Microsoft Excel (®) based program and SPSS v 10.00.

RESULTS

No statistical differences in term of mortality (2.1% in each groups) and overall morbility rate (41.6% vs 47.9%) occurred between the groups as well as for pancreatic surgery related complications. Conversely, statistical differences were found for infectious complications (22.9% vs 43.7%, p = 0.034) and length of hospital stay (18.3 ± 6.8 days vs 21.7 ± 8.3, p = 0.035) in immunonutrition group.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative oral immunonutrition is effective for well nourished patients scheduled for pancreaticoduodenectomy; it helps to reduce the risk of postoperative infectious complications and length of hospital stays.

Management of the right hepatic artery in pancreaticoduodenectomy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The right hepatic artery (RHA) is the most common hepatic artery (CHA) variation. This variation may be problematic in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). We aimed to evaluate the impact of the RHA on postoperative and oncological outcomes.

METHODS

The PubMed database was systematically searched for comparative studies reporting management of the RHA during PD for the years 1950-2014.

RESULTS

A total of 2,278 patients were analyzed, of whom 440 (19%) had a RHA. The most CHA variation was a replaced RHA. The conservative approach was the most frequently adopted (87%) and only 8% of patients had a sacrifice without reconstruction of the RHA. Postoperative mortality and overall morbidity were similar between patients with and without RHA. Despite the preservation of the RHA in most cases, the rates of microscopic positive margin were also comparable between two groups with no impact of RHA on survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative and oncological outcomes seemed unaffected by the RHA in PD. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate its oncological impact.

Early biliary complications following pancreaticoduodenectomy: prevalence and risk factors

BACKGROUND

Early biliary complications (EBC) following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) are poorly known. This study aimed to assess incidence, predictive factors, and treatment of EBC including bilio-enteric stricture, transient jaundice, biliary leak, and cholangitis.

METHOD

From 2007 to 2011, 352 patients underwent PD. Statistical analysis including logistic regression was performed to determine EBC predictive factors.

RESULTS

49 patients (14%) developed 51 EBC, including 7(2%) bilio-enteric strictures, 15(4%) transient jaundices, 9(3%) biliary leaks, and 20(6%) cholangitis with no mortality and a 18% reoperation rate. In multivariate analysis, male gender, benign disease, malignancy with preoperative chemoradiation, and common bile duct (CBD) diameter ≤ 5 mm were predictive of EBC. Of the 7 strictures, all were associated with CBD ≤ 5 mm and 5(71%) required reoperation. Transient jaundice resolved spontaneously in all 15 cases. Among 8 patients with serum bilirubin level > 50 μmol/L (3 mg/dL) at POD3, 7(88%) developed bilio-enteric stricture. Biliary leak resolved spontaneously in 5(56%); otherwise, it required reoperation. Cholangitis recurred after antibiotics discontinuation in 5(25%).

CONCLUSIONS

EBC following PD do not increase mortality. EBC are more frequent with male gender, benign disease, malignancy with preoperative chemoradiation, and CBD ≤ 5 mm. Transient jaundice or cholangitis has a favorable outcome, whereas bilio-enteric stricture or biliary leak can require reintervention.

Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer

Surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy remains the only treatment option for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with the chance of long-term survival. If a radical tumor resection is possible, 5-year survival rates of 20-25% can be achieved. Pancreatic surgery has significantly changed during the past years and resection approaches have been extended beyond standard procedures, including vascular and multivisceral resections. Consequently, borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (BR-PDAC), which has recently been defined by the International Study Group for Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS), has become a controversial issue with regard to its management in terms of upfront resection vs. neoadjuvant treatment and sequential resection. Preoperative diagnostic accuracy to define resectability of PDAC is a keypoint in this context as well as the surgical and interdisciplinary expertise to perform advanced pancreatic surgery and manage complications. The present mini-review summarizes the current state of definition, management and outcome of BR-PDAC. Furthermore, the topic of ongoing and future studies on neoadjuvant treatment which is closely related to borderline resectability in PDAC is discussed.

Current State of Vascular Resections in Pancreatic Cancer Surgery

Pancreatic cancer (PDAC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the Western world and, even in 2014, a therapeutic challenge. The only chance for long-term survival is radical surgical resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy which can be performed in about 20% of all PDAC patients by the time of diagnosis. As pancreatic surgery has significantly changed during the past years, extended operations, including vascular resections, have become more frequently performed in specialized centres and the border of resectability has been pushed forward to achieve a potentially curative approach in the respective patients in combination with neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment strategies. In contrast to adjuvant treatment which has to be regarded as a cornerstone to achieve long-term survival after resection, neoadjuvant treatment strategies for locally advanced findings are currently under debate. This overview summarizes the possibilities and evidence of vascular, namely, venous and arterial, resections in PDAC surgery.

Right gastro-omental artery reconstruction after pancreaticoduodenectomy for subtotal esophagectomy and gastric pull-up

•

Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a difficult and challenging operation, and a gastric tube is frequently used for reconstruction after subtotal esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

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The right gastro-omental artery is important for supplying blood flow to the gastric tube.

•

Surgeries for pancreatic head tumors become incredibly difficult in patients who have undergone esophageal reconstruction with a gastric tube.

•

We describe successful arterial reconstruction using the middle colic artery in a patient who had undergone esophageal reconstruction with a gastric tube and whose right gastro-omental artery had been resected.

Introduction

There are no reports on vessel reconstruction of right gastro-omental artery deficits due to pancreatic tumor resection. Here, we describe successful arterial reconstruction using the middle colic artery in a patient who had undergone esophageal reconstruction with a gastric tube and whose right gastro-omental artery had been resected.

Presentation of case

A 70-year-old man underwent subtotal esophagectomy and reconstructive surgery with a retrosternal gastric tube for esophageal cancer. A follow-up computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a tumor on the pancreatic head that was adjacent to the right gastro-omental artery. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) was subsequently performed. The gastro-omental artery was resected along with the tumor, creating a 7-cm deficit. The anastomosis was performed between the right branch of the middle colic artery and the distal end of the right gastro-omental artery. No complications that involved blood flow to the reconstructed esophagus were postoperatively observed. Four months after surgery, the blood flow to the gastric tube was confirmed by a contrast CT scan.

Discussion

We reconstructed the right gastro-omental artery using the middle colic artery, and not a vein graft, as that would have required vessel anastomosis at two locations. The middle colic artery branches on the posterior surface of the pancreas, which is located close to the right gastro-omental artery.

Conclusion

The middle colic artery provides sufficient blood supply to the pulled-up gastric tube. PD can be performed even in patients who have undergone esophageal reconstruction.

[Arterial and portal venous complications after HPB surgical procedures: Interdisciplinary management]

The surgical treatment of hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) diseases requires complex operative procedures. Within the last decades the morbidity (36-50 %) and mortality (<5 %) of these procedures could be reduced; nonetheless, postoperative complications still occur in 41.2 % of cases. Compared with hepatobiliary procedures, pancreatic surgery shows an increased rate of complications. Postoperative bleeding has a major effect on the outcome and the incidence is 6.7 % after pancreatic surgery and 3.2 % after hepatobiliary surgery. The major causes of early postoperative hemorrhage are related to technical difficulties in surgery whereas late onset postoperative hemorrhage is linked to anastomosis insufficiency, formation of fistulae or abscesses due to vascular arrosion or formation of pseudoaneurysms. In many cases, delayed hemorrhage is preceded by a self-limiting sentinel bleeding. The treatment is dependent on the point in time, location and severity of the hemorrhage. The majority of early postoperative hemorrhages require surgical treatment. Late onset hemorrhage in hemodynamically stable patients is preferably treated by radiological interventions. After interventional hemostatic therapy 8.2 % of patients require secondary procedures. In the case of hemodynamic instability or development of sepsis, a relaparotomy is necessary. The treatment concept includes surgical or interventional remediation of the underlying cause of the hemorrhage. Other causes of postoperative morbidity and mortality are arterial and portal venous stenosis and thrombosis. Following liver resection, thrombosis of the portal vein occurs in 8.5-9.1 % and in 11.6 % following pancreatic resection with vascular involvement. Interventional surgical procedures or conservative treatment are suitable therapeutic options depending on the time of diagnosis and clinical symptoms. The risk of morbidity and mortality after HPB surgery can be reduced only in close interdisciplinary cooperation, which is particularly true for vascular complications.