The International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery definition of delayed gastric emptying and the effects of various surgical modifications on the occurrence of delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy

Risk factors for delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy: a 10-year retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a frequent complication of pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and is associated with prolonged hospital stay, readmission, increased hospital costs and decreased quality of life. However, the pathophysiology of DGE remains unclear.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of patients who underwent PD for pancreatic or periampullary tumours. All these patients were operated between January 2012 and February 2023. The patients were divided into four groups according to the development of DGE after PD: No DGE, DGE grade A, DGE grade B and DGE grade C. The groups were compared in terms of outcomes and complications. We also analysed the preoperative and perioperative risk factors for DGE development.

RESULTS

Between January 2012 and February 2023, a total of 250 patients underwent PD. These patients were divided into four groups: No DGE (n = 152); DGE grade A (n = 42); DGE grade B (n = 45); and DGE grade C (n = 11). The incidence of the postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPFs) grade B/C was significantly higher in the DGE grade C group (p < .001), and the rates of post-pancreatectomy haemorrhage (p = .004) and reoperation (p < .001) were significantly higher in the DGE grade B/C groups. A significantly higher rate of grade III-IV Clavien-Dindo complications (p < .001), longer intensive care unit (p < .001) and longer hospital stays (p < .001) were observed in the DGE grade C group; and 90-day mortality (p < .001) and morbidity (p < .001) were significantly higher in the DGE grade B/C groups. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the POPF grade B/C was a risk factor of DGE grade B/C (OR: 9.147; 95%CI: 4.125-20.281; p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

POPF B/C is a risk factor for grade B/C DGE. Prevention of surgical complications and early treatment could contribute to the decreased incidence of DGE.

Fresh Beetroot Juice Alleviates Combined Ulcerative Colitis and Constipation by Restoring Physiological and Biochemical Balances in a Murine Model

BACKGROUND

Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) is well known for its medicinal uses, particularly in managing gastrointestinal disorders. This study investigates the protective effects of fresh red beet juice (FBRJ) on gastrointestinal complications caused by co-administration of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and loperamide (LOP), which induce ulcerative colitis and constipation, respectively.

METHODS

Adult rats were divided into groups and subjected to a 7-day treatment with 5% DSS to induce ulcerative colitis, followed by LOP (3 mg/kg, body weight [b.w.]) for 7 days to cause constipation. FBRJ (5 and 10 mL/kg, b.w.) or yohimbine (YOH) (2 mg/kg, b.w.) was administered 1 h after LOP each day for 7 days. Therapeutic outcomes were evaluated based on macroscopic and histological changes in the gastrointestinal tract, gastric emptying, gastrointestinal transit, oxidative stress parameters, and inflammatory markers.

KEY RESULTS

FBRJ significantly alleviated gastrointestinal dysfunctions caused by DSS and/or LOP, improving both gastric emptying and gastrointestinal transit in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Specifically, compared with the ulcerative/constipated group, the animals treated with the FBRJ showed a significant increase (52.43% ± 4.65% to 66.23% ± 6.78%) of gastric emptying (GE) andgastrointestinal transit (GIT: 48.08% ± 3.32% to 62.46% ± 4.98%) in a dose-dependent manner. It also modulated antioxidant defense systems by inducing enzyme activities and reducing lipid peroxidation, which had been significantly disrupted by the combined effects of DSS and LOP. Furthermore, inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), pro-inflammatory cytokines, and white blood cell counts, were significantly reduced in both plasma and colonic mucosa.

CONCLUSIONS AND INTERFERENCES

We suggest that FBRJ significantly protects against DSS-induced colitis and LOP-induced constipation, involving several mechanisms such as increasing secretion and peristaltic activity, reducing inflammation, and preserving the antioxidant properties.

Development and external validation of nomogram associated with gastroparesis syndrome after subtotal gastrectomy depending on random forest and traditional model: does robotic surgery have advantages?

Postsurgical gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) significantly diminishes the quality of life for patients following surgery. With the evolution of robotic surgery, there is a debate on whether it can offer a novel treatment modality for gastric cancer and reduce the incidence of gastric paralysis syndrome. This study utilizes machine learning techniques and traditional logistic regression to construct and validate predictive models, with the aim of providing guidance for clinical practitioners. This study included two cohorts from one medical centers based on the surgical timing for division (Cohort 1: n = 619 for model building and internal validation; Cohort 2: n = 312 for external validation). In Cohort 1, a 3:1 ratio was used for training and validation in random forest and a 7:3 ratio for logistic regression. After analyzing the Receiver Operating Characteristic curves (ROC), we chose classical logistic regression to build the prediction model followed by evaluation with calibration and decision curve analysis (DCA). Finally, we performed external validation on Cohort 2. The model incorporated 7 factors including: Pre-operative TBIL (OR = 2.99), Pre-operative DBIL (OR = 2.35), Pre-operative potassium (OR = 6.8), Surgical type (OR = 3.76), Gastric tube removal time (OR = 3.48), Reconstruction mode (OR = 4.63) and Operative time (OR = 2.21). The model performed well in ROC, with AUC values of 0.892 in the training set, 0.858 in the inner validation set (Cohort 1), and 0.849 in the exterior validation set (Cohort 2). All three datasets' calibration curves revealed a high level of agreement between projected and actual probability. DCA suggested that the model had great clinical usefulness. We have established a more reliable predictive model for PGS which can provide guidance for clinical practitioners. Robotic surgery is also considered to be one of the factors that can reduce the occurrence of PGS.

Meta-analysis of routine abdominal drainage versus no drainage following distal pancreatectomy: Does the best available evidence overcome "HPB surgeon's paranoia"?

AIMS

To evaluate comparative outcomes of routine abdominal drainage versus no drainage after distal pancreatectomy (DP).

METHODS

A systematic search of MEDLINE, CENTRAL and Web of Science and bibliographic reference lists were conducted (last search: 20th April 2024). All comparative studies reporting outcomes of DP with routine abdominal drainage and no drainage were included and their risk of bias were assessed. Overall perioperative complications, clinically-relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF), delayed gastric emptying (DGE), postoperative haemorrhage, surgical site infections (SSIs), need for radiological intervention, reoperation, re-admission, and postoperative mortality were the evaluated outcome parameters.

RESULTS

Eight comparative studies (2 randomised and 6 observational) reporting 8164 patients who underwent DP with (n = 6394) or without (n = 1770) routine abdominal drainage were included. Routine abdominal drainage was associated with significantly higher rates of CR-POPF (OR 2.87; 95 % CI 2.34-3.52, p < 0.00001), radiological intervention (OR 1.33; 95 % CI 1.10-1.61, p = 0.0003), SSIs (OR 2.47; 95 % CI 1.29-4.72, p = 0.006) or re-admission (OR 1.54; 95 % CI 1.30-1.82, P < 0.00001) compared to no use of drain. However, there was no significant difference in C-D III or higher postoperative morbidities (OR 1.25; 95 % CI 0.98-1.60, p = 0.08), DGE (OR 1.17; 95 % CI 0.81-1.67, p = 0.41), reoperation (OR 1.11; 95 % CI 0.80-1.54, P = 0.53), postoperative haemorrhage (OR 0.59; 95 % CI 0.18-2.00, P = 0.40), or mortality (RD 0.0; 95 % CI -0.01-0.01, p = 0.76) between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The meta-analysis of best available evidence indicates safety of "no drain policy" in distal pancreatectomy considering its lower risk of CR-POPF, re-intervention and hospital re-admission. More randomised evidence is required to overcome the "HPB surgeon's paranoia".

Surgical techniques to prevent delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is one of the most common complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). DGE represents impaired gastric motility without significant mechanical obstruction and is associated with an increased length of hospital stay, increased healthcare costs, and a high readmission rate. We reviewed published studies on various technical modifications to reduce the incidence of DGE.

DATA SOURCES

Studies were identified by searching PubMed for relevant articles published up to December 2022. The following search terms were used: "pancreaticoduodenectomy", "pancreaticojejunostomy", "pancreaticogastrostomy", "gastric emptying", "gastroparesis" and "postoperative complications". The search was limited to English publications. Additional articles were identified by a manual search of references from key articles.

RESULTS

In recent years, various surgical procedures and techniques have been explored to reduce the incidence of DGE. Pyloric resection, Billroth II reconstruction, Braun's enteroenterostomy, and antecolic reconstruction may be associated with a decreased incidence of DGE, but more high-powered studies are needed in the future. Neither laparoscopic nor robotic surgery has demonstrated superiority in preventing DGE, and the use of staplers is controversial regarding whether they can reduce the incidence of DGE.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite many innovations in surgical techniques, there is no surgical procedure that is superior to others to reduce DGE. Further larger prospective randomized studies are needed.

Benign hepaticojejunostomy strictures after pancreatoduodenectomy

PURPOSE

To determine the causes of benign hepaticojejunostomy strictures (BHSs) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and the outcome of endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERC) treatment for BHSs.

METHODS

A total of 175 patients who underwent PD between January 2013 and December 2020 and who were followed up for at least 1 year were included. Preoperative data, operative outcomes, and postoperative courses were compared between the BHS group and the group of patients who did not develop stenosis during follow-up (non-BHS group). The course of treatment in the BHS group was also examined.

RESULTS

BHS occurred in 13 of 175 patients (7.4%). Multivariate analysis of the BHS and non-BHS groups revealed that male sex (OR; 3.753, 95% CI; 1.029-18.003, P = 0.0448) and a preoperative bile duct diameter less than 8.8 mm (OR; 7.51, 95% CI; 1.75-52.40, P = 0.0053) were independent risk factors for the development of BHS. In the BHS group, all patients underwent ERC using enteroscopy. The success rate of the ERC approach to the bile duct was 92.3%. Plastic stents were inserted in 6 patients, and metallic stents were inserted in 3 patients. The median observation period since the last ERC was 17.9 months, and there was no recurrence of stenosis in any of the 13 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with narrow bile ducts are at greater risk of BHS after PD. Recently, BHS after PD has been treated with ERC-related procedures, which may reduce the burden on patients.

Delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy: an analysis of risk factors

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a frequent complication after pancreatoduodenectomy. Preoperative factors are limited and controversial. This study aims to identify associated factors related to this complication in the Colombian population.

METHODS

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was conducted. All patients over 18 years of age who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy were included. Associations with DGE syndrome were evaluated with logistic regression analysis, Odds ratio, and b-coefficient were provided when appropriate.

RESULTS

205 patients were included. Male patients constituted 54.15% (n = 111). 53 patients (25.85%) were diagnosed with DGE syndrome. Smoking habit (OR 17.58 p 0.00 95% CI 7.62-40.51), hydromorphone use > 0.6 mg/daily (OR 11.04 p 0.03 95% CI 1.26-96.66), bilirubin levels > 6 mg/dL (OR 2.51 p 0.02 95% CI 1.12-5.61), and pancreatic fistula type B (OR 2.72 p 0.02 CI 1.74-10.00).

DISCUSSION

Smoking history, opioid use (hydromorphone > 0.6 mg/Daily), type B pancreatic fistula, and bilirubin levels > 6 mg/dL should be considered as risk factors for DGE.

Prognostic role of nutrition parameters on short- and long-term outcome in patients with primary resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

PURPOSE

Nutrition status of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has gained an increasing importance - especially in the preoperative setting. The aim of the present study was to evaluate different preoperative nutritional parameters including body composition parameters regarding their impact on short- and long-term outcome in patients with resectable PDAC.

METHODS

This retrospective single center study included 162 patients, who underwent primary resection of PDAC from January 2003 to December 2018 at the University Hospital of Erlangen. The influence of different preoperative nutrition parameters as well as different CT-based body composition parameters on short- (major morbidity, postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and longer hospital stay) as well as on long-term outcome (overall and disease-free survival) were tested using multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

Major morbidity and POPF occurred in 30% respectively 18%. Median length of hospital stay was 18 days. Median overall and disease free survival were 20.3 respectively 12.0 months. Multivariate analysis revealed among the different nutritional parameters following independent predictors: PMTH (psoas muscle thickness/height) for major morbidity (HR 2.1, p = 0.038), PMA (psoas muscle area) for a prolonged hospital stay >18 days (HR 7.3, p = 0.010) and NRS (nutritional risk score) for overall survival (HR 1.7, p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

In our cohort, nutritional parameters played a minor role in predicting short- and long-term outcome in patients with primary resectable PDAC, as there were only significant associations between selected psoas muscle parameters and short-term outcome parameters and the nutritional risk score (NRS) with the overall survival.

Impact of antecolic vs transmesocolic reconstruction on delayed gastric emptying following pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy. There remains an active debate over the effect of gastrointestinal (GI) reconstruction techniques, such as antecolic (AC) or transmesocolic (TMC) reconstruction, on DGE rates. This study compared the rates of DGE between AC reconstruction and TMC reconstruction after pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD) and classic pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained pancreatic surgery database in a single, high-volume center. Demographic, perioperative, and surgical outcome data were recorded from patients who underwent a PD or PPPD between 2013 and 2021. DGE grades were classified using the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgeons (ISGPS) criteria. Postoperatively, all patients were managed using an accelerated Whipple recovery protocol.

RESULTS

A total of 824 patients were assessed, with 303 patients undergoing AC reconstruction and 521 patients undergoing TMC reconstruction. The risk of DGE was significantly greater in patients who received an AC reconstruction than in patients who received a TMC reconstruction (odds ratio [OR], 1.51; 95% CI, 1.07-2.15; P < .05). In addition, AC reconstruction was shown to have a greater incidence of severe DGE (ISGPS grades B or C) than TMC reconstruction, with approximately a 2-fold increase in severe DGE (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.10-3.45; P < .05). Logistic regression and propensity score matching have found increased DGE incidence with AC reconstruction (OR: 1.69 and 1.73, respectively; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the correlation between GI reconstruction methods and DGE remains a subject of ongoing debate, our study indicated that TMC reconstruction may be superior to AC reconstruction in minimizing the development and severity of DGE for patients after PD.

Optimal surgical management of unifocal vs. multifocal NF-PNETs: a respective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) represent 1-2% of pancreatic tumors, with recent guidelines recommending active surveillance for non-functioning PNETs (NF-PNETs) smaller than 2 cm. However, the management of multiple NF-PNETs, as well as the influence of tumor number on prognosis, remains under-researched.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed NF-PNET patients who underwent pancreatic resection at Severance Hospital between February 1993 and August 2023, comparing the characteristics of patients diagnosed with multifocal tumors and those with unifocal tumors. A subgroup analysis of overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was performed based on multifocality employing the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test.

RESULTS

Of 187 patients, 169 (90.4%) had unifocal and 18 (9.6%) had multifocal tumors. Multifocal tumors were more likely to be diffusely spread, necessitating more total pancreatectomies (diffuse tumor location: 4.7% in unifocal vs. 38.9% in multifocal cases, p < 0.001; total pancreatectomy: 4.1% in unifocal vs. 33.3% in multifocal cases, p < 0.001). In patients with NF-PNET who underwent the same extent of pancreatic resection, no significant difference in the incidence of complication was observed regardless of multifocality. Moreover, no significant difference in OS was seen between the unifocal and multifocal groups (log-rank test: p = 0.93). However, the multifocal group exhibited a poorer prognosis in terms of RFS compared to the unifocal group (log-rank test: p = 0.004) Hereditary syndrome, tumor grade, size, lymphovascular invasion, and lymph node metastasis were key factors in the recurrence.

CONCLUSION

This study's findings suggest that the presence of multiple tumors was associated with poorer recurrence-free survival but did not affect long-term survival following surgery. Given the long-term oncologic outcome and quality of life following surgery, resection of tumors over 2 cm is advisable in patients with multifocal PNETs, while a cautious "wait-and-see" approach for smaller tumors (under 2 cm) can minimize the extent of resection and improve the quality of life. In cases with only small multifocal NF-PNETs (< 2 cm), immediate resection may not be crucial, but the higher recurrence rate than that in solitary NF-PNET necessitates intensified surveillance.

Placement of Nasogastric Tubes in Pancreaticoduodenectomy Patients: Switching from Immediate Intraoperative Removal to Avoiding Unnecessary Perioperative Use

BACKGROUND

The placement of nasogastric tubes (NGTs) in abdominal surgery has been adopted for decades to attenuate ileus and prevent aspiration pneumonia. In the recent era, the guidelines recommend not using NGT routinely, and even in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), immediate removal of NGT in operating rooms (ORs) was suggested. However, the clinical outcome and safety of abandoning NGT during the pre-PD and intra-PD periods remain unknown.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center retrospective review on adult PD patients aged between 20 and 75 years from 2013 to 2022. The study population was grouped into the NGT group (NGT was placed before PD and immediately removed in the ORs) and the non-NGT group (NGT was not placed preoperatively). Safety was evaluated by the number of adverse events. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the need of NGT insertion in ORs among PD patients.

RESULTS

The case numbers in the NGT and non-NGT groups were 391 and 578, respectively. No case in the non-NGT group needed the intraoperative insertion of NGT. The rate of pulmonary complications was 2.3% in the NGT group compared to 1.6% in the non-NGT group (P = 0.400). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in terms of rates of major complications (12.8% vs. 9.3%, P = 0.089) or mortality (1.0% vs. 1.0%, P =0.980) between the two groups. The rates of the postoperative insertion of NGT in the NGT and non-NGT groups were 2.6% and 2.8% (P = 0.840), respectively.

CONCLUSION

For selected PD patients, the placement of NGT during pre-PD and intra-PD periods may be safely omitted. This primary study is considered the first foundation stone in the extension of the element of no NGT in PD.

Pancreatic resection for metastasis from renal cell carcinoma: A single institution experience and meta-analysis of survival outcomes

AIMS

To evaluate short-term clinical and long-term survival outcomes of pancreatic resection for pancreatic metastasis from renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

METHODS

A retrospective evaluation of patients undergoing pancreatic resection for metastasis from RCC over a 12-years period was conducted. Furthermore, a systematic search of electronic data sources and bibliographic reference lists were conducted to identify studies investigating the same clinical question. Short-term clinical and long-term survival outcomes were evaluated. Kaplan-Meier survival plots were constructed for survival outcomes. Cox-proportional regression analysis was performed to determine factors associated with survival. Finally, meta-analysis of survival outcomes was conducted using random-effects modelling.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients underwent pancreatic resections for RCC pancreatic metastasis within the study period. The mean age of the included patients was 63.8 ± 8.0 years. There were 10(55.6 %) male and 8(44.4 %) female patients. Pancreatectomy was associated with 4(25.0 %) Clavien-Dindo (C-D) I, 5(31.3 %) C-D II, and 7(43.7 %) C-D III complications, 7(38.8 %) pancreatic fistula, 3(16.7 %) post-pancreatectomy acute pancreatitis, 1(5.6 %) delayed gastric emptying, and 1(5.6 %) chyle leak. The mean length of hospital stay was 18 ± 16.3 days. The median survival was 64 months (95 % CI 60-78). The 3-and 5-year disease-free survival rates were 83.3 % and 55.5 %, respectively. The 3-and 5-year survival rates were 100 % and 55.6 %, respectively. The pooled analyses of 553 patients demonstrated 3-and 5-year survival rates of 77.6 % and 60.7 %, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreatectomy for RCC metastasis is associated with acceptable short-term clinical and promising long-term survival outcomes. Considering the rarity of the entity, escalation of level of evidence in this context is challenging.

Long-term Survival, Quality of Life, and Molecular Features of the Patients With Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm of the Pancreas: A Retrospective Study of 454 Cases

OBJECTIVE

To present comprehensive information on the clinicopathological, molecular, survival characteristics, and quality of life (QOL) after surgery for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas in a large cohort after long-term follow-up.

BACKGROUND

SPN is a rare tumor with an uncertain malignant potential, and solid information on long-term prognosis and QOL remains limited.

METHODS

All hospitalized patients with SPNs who underwent surgery between 2001 and 2021 at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. The clinicopathological characteristics of the patients were retrieved. A cross-sectional telephone questionnaire was administered to inquire about the QOL. Molecular analyses were performed using whole-exome sequencing.

RESULTS

Exactly 454 patients with SPN were enrolled, of whom 18.5% were males and 81.5% were females. The mean patient age was 31 ± 12 years. In total, 61.3% of the patients had no symptoms. The size of the tumors was 5.38 ± 3.70 cm; 83.4% were solid cystic tumors, and 40.1% had calcifications. The proportions of local resection, distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy, and pancreaticoduodenectomy with or without pylorus preservation were 29.7%, 28.9% or 22.9%, and 11% or 6.8%, respectively. Over the years, there has been a significant shift from open to minimally invasive surgery. Among all surgical procedures, pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD) had the highest incidence of grade 2 to 4 complications (up to 32.3%), compared with 6.7% in distal pancreatectomy ( P < 0.001). Regarding histopathology, tissue invasion, perineural invasion, cancerous microvascular emboli, lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis were present in 16.5%, 2.2%, 0.7%, 2.0%, and 3.1% of patients, respectively. Sixty patients were lost to follow-up. Sixteen of the 390 patients who underwent resection (4.1%) experienced local recurrence or distant metastasis after surgery. In total, 361 patients responded to the telephone survey. Nearly 80% of patients claimed their QOL was not significantly affected after surgery; however, the remaining 20% complained of lower QOL during 3 to 6 years of follow-up after surgery. No clinicopathological factor could reliably predict clinical recurrence or metastasis after resection. A total of 28 driver genes were detected with mutations in at least 2 tumor samples and the top 3 frequently mutated genes were CTNNB1 , ATRNL1 , and MUC16 .

CONCLUSIONS

This study presented the largest cohort of patients with SPN after surgery from a single center and reported the QOL of these patients. SPN is associated with extremely favorable long-term survival, even in patients with metastasis, and most patients have a good QOL after surgery.

Preoperative and postoperative complications as risk factors for delayed gastric emptying following pancreaticoduodenectomy: A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Mortality rates after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) have significantly decreased in specialized centers. However, postoperative morbidity, particularly delayed gastric emptying (DGE), remains the most frequent complication following PD.

AIM

To identify risk factors associated with DGE after the PD procedure.

METHODS

In this retrospective, cross-sectional study, clinical data were collected from 114 patients who underwent PD between January 2015 and June 2018. Demographic factors, pre- and perioperative characteristics, and surgical complications were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for post-PD DGE.

RESULTS

The study included 66 males (57.9%) and 48 females (42.1%), aged 33-83 years (mean: 62.5), with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 1.4:1. There were 63 cases (55.3%) of PD and 51 cases (44.7%) of pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy. Among the 114 patients who underwent PD, 33 (28.9%) developed postoperative DGE. Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in four of the 14 clinical indexes observed: pylorus preservation, retrocolonic anastomosis, postoperative abdominal complications, and early postoperative albumin (ALB). Logistic regression analysis further identified postoperative abdominal complications [odds ratio (OR) = 4.768, P = 0.002], preoperative systemic diseases (OR = 2.516, P = 0.049), and early postoperative ALB (OR = 1.195, P = 0.003) as significant risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative severe abdominal complications, preoperative systemic diseases, and early postoperative ALB are identified as risk factors for post-PD DGE.

Post-pancreatectomy Acute Pancreatitis in Distal Pancreatectomies - a Rare Bird According to the New Definition

BACKGROUND

Post-pancreatectomy acute pancreatitis (PPAP) is a recently identified clinical condition characterized by sustained elevated serum amylase levels for at least 48 h post-operatively, consistent radiological findings, and relevant clinical features. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of PPAP after DP, to investigate the rate of major complications in patients with sustained or transiently elevated serum amylase activity, and to explore the usability of CT as a prerequisite for the diagnosis of PPAP.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center observational study included consecutive patients 18 years or older who underwent DP at Karolinska University Hospital between 2008 and 2020. The two serum amylase levels on post-operative days (POD) 1 and 2 were correlated with post-operative major complications by logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Of the 403 patients who underwent DP, 14% (n = 58) had sustained elevated serum amylase levels according to PPAP criteria, and 31% (n = 126) had transiently elevated serum amylase levels on either POD1 or POD2. Of the patients with sustained elevated levels, 45% (n = 26) developed major complications, but less than 2% (n = 1) showed imaging findings consistent with acute pancreatitis. Of the 126 patients who exhibited only transiently elevated serum amylase on either POD1 or POD2, 38% (n = 48) developed major complications. The frequency of PPAP was 0.25% (n = 1).

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that PPAP after DP is rare and that computed tomography has limited usability for diagnosing PPAP. The findings also suggest that transiently elevated serum amylase may be an early indicator of acute pancreatitis, especially when peaked.

Clinical Value of Circulating microRNAs in Diagnosis and Prognosis of Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most common cancers and has a high mortality rate due to high invasiveness and rapid progression. Microribonucleic acid (microRNA) plays an essential role in diagnosing PC in the early stages, which improves the five-year survival rate. This systematic review aims to highlight the different subtypes of serum and plasma microRNAs and panel-based assays of microRNAs and how they play a crucial role in the diagnosis and prognosis of PC as a high-sensitive and specific novel biomarker. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, an in-depth search was performed by using regular keywords and major Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) keywords in PubMed (MEDLINE), PubMed Central, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library for articles related to this topic and published between 2013 and 2023, up to April 18, 2023. Further eligibility criteria and quality assessment tools were employed to assess the risk of bias, and 13 articles were finalized to be used in this review. The chosen articles included five cross-sectional studies, six systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and two literature reviews. This review provides strong evidence of the usage of microRNA for early diagnosis. It can also be used to exclude differential diagnoses of other diseases, and its prognostic value for determining metastasis and therapeutic efficacy in PC patients. Also, combining microRNA panels with carbohydrate antigen 19.9 (CA19-9) improves the sensitivity and specificity of microRNA as a biomarker.

Role of contrast-enhanced serial/spot abdominal X-rays in perioperative follow-up of patients undergoing abdominal surgery: An observational clinical study

BACKGROUND

Many imaging methods such as ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, and endoscopy are used to identify the problems or complications that occur in the perioperative period and to determine the appropriate therapeutic approach. Specialists at surgical clinics and intensive care units sometimes need diagnostic procedures that can give quick results or reveal unexpected results. In particular, rapid on-site evaluation of patients followed under intensive care conditions has several advantages.

AIM

To determine the problems developing in patients in the perioperative period by contrast-enhanced abdominal X-ray (CE-AXR), revealing their current status or defining the effectiveness of CE-AXR.

METHODS

The files of the patients who underwent hepatopancreatobiliary or upper gastrointestinal surgery, whose CE-AXR film was taken, were reviewed retrospectively. Abdominal X-ray radiographs taken after ingestion of a water-soluble contrast agent (iohexol, 300 mg, 50 cc vial) and its application in a drain, nasogastric tube, or stent were evaluated. The contribution of the data obtained in patients who underwent CE-AXR to the diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment processes and the effectiveness of the application were investigated.

RESULTS

CE-AXR was applied to 131 patients in our clinic, most of whom underwent hepatopancreatobiliary or upper gastrointestinal surgery. It was determined that the data obtained from CE-AXR films taken in 98 (74.8%) of the patients contributed to the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up expectations and positively affected the clinical processes.

CONCLUSION

CE-AXR is a simple procedure that can be applied anywhere, especially in intensive care patients and at bedside, with a portable X-ray device. The simplicity of the procedure, less radiation exposure for the patients, less time wastage, reduction in the CT and endoscopy procedure burden and costs, quick results, rapid assessment of the situation, and enabling the monitoring of processes with repetitive procedures are important advantages. X-rays taken will be useful in terms of being a reference value during the follow-up period of the patient and determining the situation in medicolegal processes.

Impact of Aspirin Intake on Postoperative Survival after Primary Pancreatic Resection of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma-A Single-Center Evaluation

(1) Background: The intake of aspirin (ASS) has been demonstrated to have a relevant impact on the pathogenesis, incidence and outcome in different solid gastrointestinal tumors. However, data on the effect of ASS on the short-term outcome and the long-term survival in patients with pancreatic carcinoma are still limited. (2) Methods: A total of 213 patients who underwent primary resection of PDAC at the University Hospital of Erlangen from January 2000 to December 2018 were included in this retrospective single-center study in total. Patients were stratified according to the aspirin intake into three groups: continuous aspirin intake (cASS), perioperatively interrupted aspirin intake (iASS) and no aspirin intake (no ASS) at the timepoint of surgery. The postoperative outcome as well as long-term survival were compared between the groups. (3) Results: There were no differences regarding postoperative morbidity (iASS: 54% vs. cASS: 53% vs. no ASS: 64%, p = 0.448) and in-hospital mortality (iASS: 4% vs. cASS: 10% vs. no ASS: 3%, p = 0.198) between the groups. The overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) did not differ in the groups when comparing the ASS-intake status (OS: iASS 17.8 months vs. cASS 19.6 months vs. no ASS 21.6 months, p = 0.489; DFS: iASS 14.0 months vs. cASS 18.3 months vs. no ASS 14.7 months, p = 0.957). Multivariate analysis revealed that age (hazard ratio (HR) 2.2, p < 0.001), lymph node-positive status (HR 2.0, p < 0.001), R status 1 or 2 (HR 2.8, p < 0.001) and differentiation with a grading of 3 (HR 1.7, p = 0.005) were significant independent prognostic factors regarding the OS. Moreover, age (HR 1.5, p = 0.040), lymph node-positive status (HR 1.8, p = 0.002) and high-grade (G3) carcinomas (HR 1.5, p = 0.037) could be identified as independent prognostic parameters for DFS. (4) Conclusions: In patients undergoing primary surgery for curative resection of pancreatic carcinoma, the perioperative intake of ASS had no significant impact on postoperative outcome, overall and disease-free survival.

Pancreatoduodenectomy for suspected malignancy: nonmalignant histology confers increased risk of serious morbidity

BACKGROUND/AIMS

A tissue diagnosis is not always obtained prior to pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and a proportion of patients are found to have noncancerous histology postoperatively. It is unknown if these patients have different outcomes when compared with those who have malignancy confirmed.

METHODS

A retrospective paired case matched control study was undertaken. Patients who underwent PD for suspected malignancy but ultimately had nonmalignant histology were identified. Each was matched to a confirmed malignant control using the following criteria: age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists grade, neoadjuvant treatment, preoperative serum bilirubin, preoperative biliary stenting and type of pancreatic anastomosis. Matching was blinded to the measured outcomes, which included perioperative morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

Forty-five cases were compared with 45 well-matched controls. There was no difference in 30- or 90-day mortality, or length of stay. While overall morbidity rates were the same, patients with nonmalignant disease were more likely to experience major (Clavien-Dindo grade III-IV) morbidity (40.0% versus 17.8%, p = 0.0352). Independently, rates of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) were higher in the nonmalignant group (22.2% versus 4.44%, p = 0.0131).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, PD patients with nonmalignant histology had significantly higher incidence of major morbidity and CR-POPF when compared with those who had malignancy confirmed. This should be considered when planning the management of patients with known or presumed benign/premalignant disease.

Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (EDKA) after pancreaticoduodenectomy: An under-recognized metabolic abnormality with outcome implications

BACKGROUND

Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis is a metabolic condition characterized by relative euglycemia, ketonemia, and metabolic acidosis that occurs through mechanisms resembling starvation. Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a complex abdominal operation that subjects patients to a prolonged fasting and an inflammatory state. This study examined the incidence of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis and potential opportunities for early diagnosis and management in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

A single-institution retrospective review of 350 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between 2017 and 2020 was performed. Primary endpoints were peak beta-hydroxybutyrate levels, peak lactate levels, lowest pH, peak base deficits, and urinary output within the first 24 hours, postoperatively. Additional endpoints included incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying, total complications, postoperative hospital length of stay, readmission rates, and changes in insulin regimen at discharge.

RESULTS

Of the 350 cases reviewed, 39 (11.1%) patients developed euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis. Male sex and pancreatic cancer were associated with a risk for euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (P < .05). Patients with euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis had significantly higher peak beta-hydroxybutyrate levels than patients without euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (mean difference = 19.8 mg/dL, 95% confidence interval = 14.7-24.9, P < .001), and were nearly four times more likely to require insulin at discharge (odds ratio 3.8, 95% confidence interval = 1.1-13.0, P < .05).

CONCLUSION

This is the first large descriptive study that investigates euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis after pancreaticoduodenectomy is associated with significantly higher beta-hydroxybutyrate levels and new or increased insulin requirement at discharge. Our study demonstrates potential markers for euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis after pancreaticoduodenectomy, offering an opportunity to identify and successfully treat this disease in a timely manner.

Impact of age on short-term outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A retrospective case-control study of 260 patients

BACKGROUND

Although the increase of perioperative complications in the elderly undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) surgery has been recognized, the definition of the "old patient" of PD in the studies is different and there is no accepted cut-off value at present.

METHODS

279 consecutive patients who have undergone PD in our center between January 2012 and May 2020 were analyzed. Demographic features, clinical-pathological data and short-term outcomes were collected. The patients were divided into two groups, and the cut-off value (62.5 years) is picked based on the highest Youden Index. Primary endpoints were perioperative morbidity and mortality, and complications were classified according to the Clavien-Dindo Score.

RESULTS

A total of 260 patients with PD were included in this study. Postoperative pathology confirmed pancreatic tumors in 62 patients, bile duct tumor in 105, duodenal tumor in 90, and others in 3. Age (OR = 1.09, P < 0.01), and albumin (OR = 0.34, P < 0.05) were significantly correlated with postoperative Clavien-Dindo Score ≥3b. There were 173 (66.5%) patients in the younger group (<62.5 years) and 87 (33.5%) in the elderly group (≥62.5 years). Significant difference between two groups was demonstrated for Clavien-Dindo Score ≥3b (P < 0.01), postoperative pancreatic fistula (P < 0.05), and perioperative deceases (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Age and albumin were significantly correlated with postoperative Clavien-Dindo Score ≥3b, and there was no significant difference in predicting the grade of Clavien-Dindo Score. The cut-off value of elderly patients with PD was 62.5 years old and there were useful in predicting Clavien-Dindo Score ≥3b, pancreatic fistula, and perioperative death.

Post-Pancreatectomy Acute Pancreatitis-The New Criteria Fail to Recognize Significant Presentations

BACKGROUND

Post-pancreatectomy acute pancreatitis (PPAP) is a newly described clinical entity defined as elevated serum amylase sustained ≥ 48 h postoperatively, radiological findings consistent with acute pancreatitis, and associated clinically relevant features. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of PPAP and the rate of major complications after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) in patients with only transiently elevated serum amylase.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center observational study was conducted including consecutive patients ≥ 18 years of age undergoing PD at Karolinska University Hospital, between 2008 and 2020. Serum amylase on postoperative day (POD) 1 and 2 and records from computer tomography were analyzed and correlated with postoperative major complications by logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Of some 1078 patients that underwent PD, 284 exhibited sustained elevated serum amylase (according to PPAP criteria) and 183 transiently elevated serum amylase on either POD1 or POD2. Of the patients with sustained elevated levels, 43% (n = 123) developed major complications, but only 6.3% (n = 18) showed findings consistent with acute pancreatitis on imaging. Of the 183 cases that exhibited only transiently elevated serum amylase on either POD1 or POD2, 32% (n = 58) developed major complications.

CONCLUSION

Sustained hyperamylasemia was observed in 26% of patients after PD, and an additional 17% of patients had a transient elevation of serum amylase postoperatively. Acute pancreatitis after PD may be underdiagnosed, partly by overlooking transiently elevated serum amylase and partly by requiring imaging that potentially fails to recognize mild but complication-prone acute pancreatitis.

Laparoscopic versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic and periampullary tumor: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and non-randomized comparative studies

Objective

This meta-analysis compares the perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) to those of open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) for pancreatic and periampullary tumors.

Background

LPD has been increasingly applied in the treatment of pancreatic and periampullary tumors. However, the perioperative outcomes of LPD versus OPD are still controversial.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized comparative trials (NRCTs) comparing LPD versus OPD for pancreatic and periampullary tumors. The main outcomes were mortality, morbidity, serious complications, and hospital stay. The secondary outcomes were operative time, blood loss, transfusion, postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF), postpancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH), bile leak (BL), delayed gastric emptying (DGE), lymph nodes harvested, R0 resection, reoperation, and readmission. RCTs were evaluated by the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. NRCTs were assessed using a modified tool from the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies. Data were pooled as odds ratio (OR) or mean difference (MD). This study was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022338832).

Results

Four RCTs and 35 NRCTs concerning a total of 40,230 patients (4,262 LPD and 35,968 OPD) were included. Meta-analyses showed no significant differences in mortality (OR 0.91, p = 0.35), serious complications (OR 0.97, p = 0.74), POPF (OR 0.93, p = 0.29), PPH (OR 1.10, p = 0.42), BL (OR 1.28, p = 0.22), harvested lymph nodes (MD 0.66, p = 0.09), reoperation (OR 1.10, p = 0.41), and readmission (OR 0.95, p = 0.46) between LPD and OPD. Operative time was significantly longer for LPD (MD 85.59 min, p < 0.00001), whereas overall morbidity (OR 0.80, p < 0.00001), hospital stay (MD -2.32 days, p < 0.00001), blood loss (MD -173.84 ml, p < 0.00001), transfusion (OR 0.62, p = 0.0002), and DGE (OR 0.78, p = 0.002) were reduced for LPD. The R0 rate was higher for LPD (OR 1.25, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

LPD is associated with non-inferior short-term surgical outcomes and oncologic adequacy compared to OPD when performed by experienced surgeons at large centers. LPD may result in reduced overall morbidity, blood loss, transfusion, and DGE, but longer operative time. Further RCTs should address the potential advantages of LPD over OPD.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022338832.

Risk factors for delayed gastric emptying in pancreaticoduodenectomy

The study of robotic pancreaticouodenectomy (RPD) focusing on delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is seldom reported. This study explored the incidence of DGE in RPD with extracorporeal hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy involving downward positioning of the stomach. Patients with periampullary lesions undergoing RPD or open pancreaticouodenectomy (OPD) were included for comparison. A variety of clinical factors were evaluated for the risk of developing DGE. There were 409 (68.2%) RPD and 191 (31.8%) OPD in this study. DGE occurred in 7.7% of patients after pancreaticoduodenectomy, with 4.4% in RPD and 14.7% in OPD, p < 0.001. Nausea/vomiting (12.6% vs. 6.3%) and jaundice (9.9% vs. 5.2%) were significant preoperative risk factors for DGE, while malignancy (8.7% vs. 2.2%) and lymph node involvement (9.8% vs. 5.6%) were significant pathological risk factors. Intraoperative blood loss > 200 c.c. was the other factor related to DGE (11.2% vs. 4.4% in those with blood loss ≤ 200 c.c.). None of the postoperative complications was significantly associated with DGE. Hospital stay was significantly longer in the group with DGE (median, 37 vs. 20 days in the group without DGE). After multivariate analysis by binary logistic regression, compared with OPD, RPD was the only independent factor associated with a lower incidence of DGE. RPD with extracorporeal hand-sewn antecolic, antiperistaltic, and inframesocolic gastrojejunostomy via a small umbilical wound involving careful downward positioning of the stomach was associated with a low incidence of DGE and presented as the most powerful independent predictor of this condition.

Dynamics Changes of Solids Gastric Emptying Post -Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND: Gastric emptying (GE) is one of the common post-operative complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Multiple factors have been involved in this complication. Dynamic studies such as GE scintigraphy (GES) have informed us about changes in the behavior of the stomach before and after the operation. AIM: The objective of this study is a short-term scintigraphic evaluation of GE in post-PD patients for solid food before (baseline) and after the operation for 30 days. METHODS: Between April 2016 and September 2019, 30 patients who underwent PD were investigated for the effect on GE of solids. GE scan GES was performed for the evaluation of solids in GE on pre-operative and post-operative day 30. The operative time, blood loss, the specimens’ pathology and resection margins, the interpretation of the GES study, and finally the hospital course data were all gathered and subjected to statistical analysis. RESULTS: Nineteen patients developed delayed GE (DGE) while four developed rapid GE or dumping. The type of pancreatic reconstruction affected the GE dynamics. DGE was evident in all cases with pancreaticogastrostomy (PG), while it was observed only in 4 patients of 15 with pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ). Seven cases developed a post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF), 3 after PG versus 4 after PJ, and were all successfully managed conservatively. CONCLUSION: The reconstruction method of the remnant pancreas could affect the dynamics of GE. The DGE to solids was witnessed more in cases reconstructed by PG and less in cases with PJ. Post-operative complications associated, such as POPF, are factors associated with DGE.

Blueprint For Safe Transition From a Low- to High-Volume Pancreatic Surgery Center

We describe a straightforward model to implement a high volume specialty surgery program at a community hospital. Using pancreatic surgery as an example, we employed published processes in three arenas. First, mandatory multidisciplinary tumor board presentations captured all the patients considered for surgery. Then, perioperative protocols using tools such as enhanced recovery and teamwork in the perioperative arena created a reproducible and safe environment for complex surgery. We critically reviewed all complications using the Clavien-Dindo methodology, and confirmed our favorable outcomes via the targeted NSQIP program. These standard steps can be used for implementation of a new complex surgical procedure.

Impact of Patient Age on Postoperative Short-Term and Long-Term Outcome after Pancreatic Resection of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma

(1) Purpose: to evaluate the impact of age on postoperative short-term and long-term outcomes in patients undergoing curative pancreatic resection for PDAC. (2) Methods: This retrospective single-center study comprised 213 patients who had undergone primary resection of PDAC from January 2000 to December 2018 at the University Hospital of Erlangen, Germany. Patients were stratified according the age into two groups: younger (≤70 years) and older (>70 years) patients. Postoperative outcome and long-term survival were compared between the groups. (3) Results: There were no significant differences regarding inhospital morbidity (58% vs. 67%, p = 0.255) or inhospital mortality (2% vs. 7%, p = 0.073) between the two groups. The median overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were significantly shorter in elderly patients (OS: 29.2 vs. 17.1 months, p < 0.001, respectively; DFS: 14.9 vs. 10.4 months, p = 0.034). Multivariate analysis revealed that age was a significant independent prognostic predictor for OS and DFS (HR 2.23, 95% CI 1.58−3.15; p < 0.001 for OS and HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.17−2.24; p = 0.004 for DFS). (4) Conclusion: patient age significantly influenced overall and disease-free survival in patients with PDAC undergoing primary resection in curative intent.

The short-term outcomes of distal pancreatectomy with portal vein/superior mesenteric vein resection

BACKGROUND

Portal vein/superior mesenteric vein (PV/SMV) resection during distal pancreatectomy (DP) is often associated with technical difficulties due to the close anatomic relationship between pancreatic head and PV/SMV. In this paper, we present our operative technique and short-term outcomes of DP combined with venous resection (DP-VR) for left-sided pancreatic cancer (PC).

METHODS

We reviewed 368 consecutive cases of DP for PC from January 2013 to December 2018 in our institution, and identified 41 patients (11.1%) who had undergone DP-VR. The remaining 327 DP patients (88.9%) were matched to DP-VR using propensity scores in the proportion of 1:2. Demographics, intraoperative details, postoperative complications and the pathological results were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Out of the 41 DP-VR cases, in 14 (34.1%) venous resection with primary closure was performed, while the remaining 27 (65.9%) underwent end-to-end anastomosis without graft. A propensity-score-matched analysis revealed that DP-VR caused an increased risk of postoperative bleeding (17.1% vs. 3.7%, P = 0.016) and delayed gastric emptying (9.8% vs. 1.2%, P = 0.042) compared to standard DP. Overall morbidity (46.3% vs. 36.6%, P = 0.332), postoperative pancreatic fistula (31.7% vs. 26.8%, P = 0.672), R0 resection (58.5% vs. 67.1%, P = 0.223), 30-day reoperation (2.4% vs. 3.7%, P = 0.719), and 90-day mortality (0% vs. 2.5%, P = 0.550) were comparable between the two groups. In postoperative computed tomographic scans of 34 patients (82.9%) at a 90-day follow-up, PV/SMV stenosis was suggested in two patients (5.9%).

CONCLUSION

Despite the higher rates of postoperative bleeding, DP-VR was found to be a feasible and safe surgery with acceptable postoperative morbidity and mortality compared to standard DP for left-sided pancreatic cancer.

Time to Surgery Does Not Affect Overall or Disease-Free Survival of Patients with Primary Resectable PDAC

(1) Background: Delay in therapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) may contribute to a worse outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of time from diagnosis to surgery in patients undergoing upfront surgery for primarily resectable pancreatic carcinoma. (2) Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 214 patients who underwent primary resection of PDAC from January 2000 to December 2018 at University Hospital Erlangen. Using a minimum p-value approach, patients were stratified according to time to surgery (TtS) into two groups: TtS ≤ 23 days and TtS > 23 days. Postoperative outcome and long-term survival were compared. (3) Results: Median TtS was 25 days. The best cut-off for TtS was determined as 23 days. There were no differences regarding postoperative outcome or overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) (OS: 23.8 vs. 20.4 months, p = 0.210, respectively, and DFS: 15.8 vs. 13.6 months, p = 0.187). Multivariate analysis revealed age, lymph node metastasis, tumor differentiation and resection status as significant independent prognostic predictors for OS and DFS. (4) Conclusions: A delay of surgery > 23 days after first diagnosis does not affect overall or disease-free survival of patients with primary resectable PDAC. However, the psychological impact of a delay to patients waiting for surgery should not be underestimated.

Is routine CT scan after pancreaticoduodenectomy a useful tool in the early detection of complications? A single center retrospective analysis

PURPOSE

The clinical impact of routine CT imaging after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has not been properly investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of routine CT scan after PD for the detection of postoperative complications.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data of consecutive patients undergoing PD and receiving routine postoperative CT imaging were retrospectively analyzed. The primary endpoint was accuracy of CT imaging in identifying major complications. The secondary endpoint was identification of preoperative and intraoperative factors associated with severe complications. A subgroup analysis of CT scan accuracy in identifying severe complications in patients stratified by fistula risk score (FRS) and presence of early clinical alterations was also performed.

RESULTS

A total of 145 patients were included. Routine CT scan had low specificity (Sp = 0.36) and high sensitivity (Sn = 0.98) for predicting major complications, with an accuracy of 0.57. At multivariate logistic regression analysis, only fistula moderate-high FRS (p = 0.029) was independently associated with severe complications. In patients with negligible-low FRS, CT scan showed a Sp of 0.63 and a Sn of 1.0 with an accuracy of 0.69. In patients with moderate-high FRS, CT scan had a Sp of 0.19, a Sn of 0.97 and an accuracy of 0.5. In the 20 (14%) patients with negligible-low FRS and no clinical alterations, no deaths or readmissions occurred regardless of CT findings, while one severe complication occurred in the positive CT scan group. In all other groups, no deaths or readmissions occurred in case of negative CT, with only one severe complication in the moderate-high FRS group with clinical alterations. In case of positive CT, the rate of severe complications was 47% in case of negligible-low FRS and clinical alterations, 40% in case of moderate-high FRS with no clinical alterations, and 45% in case of moderate-high FRS and clinical alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine postoperative CT scan after PD should not be performed in patients with negligible-low FRS and no clinical alterations. In all other patients, a negative CT scan appears to be highly accurate in identifying patients who will have an uneventful course and who could benefit from early discharge.

Preoperative sarcopenia is a negative predictor for enhanced postoperative recovery after pancreaticoduodenectomy

PURPOSE

Sarcopenia is common in pancreatic cancer patients. Considering the growing adoption of standardized protocols for enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), we examined the clinical impact of sarcopenia in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) patients in a 5-day accelerated ERAS program, termed the Whipple Accelerated Recovery Pathway.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of patients undergoing PD from 2017 through 2020 on the ERAS pathway. Preoperative computerized tomographic scans taken within 45 days before surgery were analyzed to determine psoas muscle cross-sectional area (PMA) at the third lumbar vertebral body. Sarcopenia was defined as the lowest quartile of PMA respective to gender. Outcome measures were compared between patients with or without sarcopenia.

RESULTS

In this 333-patient cohort, 252 (75.7%) patients had final pathology revealing pancreatic or periampullary cancer. The median age was 66.7 years (16.4-88.4 years) with a 161:172 male to female ratio. Sarcopenia correlated with delayed tolerance of oral intake (OR 2.2; 95%CI 1.1-4.3, P = 0.03), increased complication rates (OR 4.3; 95%CI 2.2-8.5, P < 0.01), and longer hospital length of stay (LOS) (P < 0.05). Preoperative albumin levels, BMI, and history of pancreatitis were also found to correlate with LOS (P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis found low PMA, BMI, and male gender to be independent predictors of increased LOS (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Sarcopenia correlated with increased LOS and postoperative complications in ERAS patients after PD. Sarcopenia can be used to predict poor candidates for ERAS protocols who may require an alternative recovery protocol, promoting a clinical tier-based approach to ERAS for pancreatic surgery.

Preoperative Anemia Is a Predictor of Worse Postoperative Outcomes Following Open Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Propensity Score-Based Analysis

Background

Preoperative anemia is a common clinical situation proved to be associated with severe outcomes in major surgeries, but not in pancreatic surgery. We aim to study the impact of preoperative anemia on morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing open pancreatoduodenectomy and use propensity score matching (PSM) to balance the basal data and reduce bias.

Methods

We analyzed the data of consecutive patients undergoing open pancreatoduodenectomy with a complete record of preoperative hemoglobin, at two pancreatic centers in China between 2015 and 2019. Anemia is defined as hemoglobin less than 12 g/dl for male and 11 g/dl for female, following Chinese criteria. We compared clinical and economic outcomes before and after PSM and used logistic regression analysis to assess the correlation between variables and anemia.

Results

The unmatched initial cohort consisted of 517 patients. A total of 148 cases (28.6%) were diagnosed with anemia at admission, and no case received a preoperative blood transfusion or anti-anemia therapy. After PSM, there were 126 cases in each group. The rate of severe postoperative complications was significantly higher in the anemia group than in the normal group (43.7% vs. 27.0%, p = 0.006), among which the differences in prevalence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) (31.0% vs. 15.9%, p = 0.005) and cardiac and cerebrovascular events (4.0% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.024) were the most significant. The costs involved were more in the anemia group (26958.2 ± 21671.9 vs. 20987.7 ± 10237.9 USD, p = 0.013). Among anemic patients, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis shows the cut-off value of hemoglobin, below which, patients are prone to suffer from major complications (104.5 g/l in male and 90.5 g/l in female). Among all patients, multivariate analysis showed that preoperative obstructive jaundice [odds ratio (OR) = 1.813, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.206–2.725), p = 0.004] and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma [OR = 1.861, 95% CI (1.178–2.939), p = 0.008] were predictors of anemia. Among paired patients, preoperative anemia [OR = 2.593, 95% CI (1.481–5.541), p = 0.001] and malignant pathology [OR = 4.266, 95% CI (1.597–11.395), p = 0.004] were predictors of postoperative severe complications.

Conclusion

Preoperative anemia is a predictor of worse postoperative outcomes following open pancreatoduodenectomy and needs to be identified and treated.

Delayed gastric emptying following distal pancreatectomy: incidence and predisposing factors

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) following elective distal pancreatectomy (DP) is poorly known. This study aimed to report incidence of DGE following DP, to identify its predisposing factors, and to assess its impact on hospital stay.

METHODS

Patients who had elective DP without additional organ or vascular resection (2012-2017) in two academic hospitals were included. Factors predisposing to DGE, defined according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery, were identified by multivariate analysis. A systematic review was performed to evaluate DGE incidence following elective DP.

RESULTS

311 elective DPs were performed. Three perioperative mortalities (1.0%) were unrelated to DGE. DGE occurred in 31 (10.0%) patients (grade A = 21, grade B = 7, grade C = 3) with a median hospital stay of 16 (13-22) days versus 10 (7-14) without DGE (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, predisposing factors of DGE were age>75 years (OR = 4.32 [1.53-12.19]; p = 0.006), open approach (OR = 2.97 [1.1-8]; p = 0.031) and POPF grade B-C (OR = 2.54 [1.05-6.1]; p = 0.038). The systematic review identified 7 series including 876 patients with an overall 8.1% DGE incidence.

CONCLUSION

DGE complicates around 10% of elective DP. Laparoscopic approach and prevention of POPF should be encouraged to reduce DGE incidence.

Pilot trial of remote monitoring to prevent malnutrition after hepatopancreatobiliary surgery

Background

Patients undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery, such patients with pancreatic, periampullary, and liver cancer, are at high risk for malnutrition. Malnutrition increases surgical complications and reduces overall survival. Despite its severity, there are limited interventions addressing malnutrition after HPB surgery. The aim of this pilot trial was to examine feasibility, acceptability, usability, and preliminary efficacy of a remote nutrition monitoring intervention after HPB surgery.

Methods

Participants received tailored nutritional counseling before and after surgery at 2 and 4 weeks after hospital discharge. Participants also recorded nutritional intake daily for 30 days, and these data were reviewed remotely by registered dietitians before nutritional counseling visits. Descriptive statistics were used to describe study outcomes.

Results

All 26 patients approached to participate consented to the trial before HPB surgery. Seven were excluded after consent for failing to meet eligibility criteria (e.g., did not receive surgery). Nineteen participants (52.6% female, median age = 65 years) remained eligible for remote monitoring post-surgery. Nineteen used the mobile app food diary, 79% of participants recorded food intake for greater than 80% of study days, 95% met with the dietitian for all visits, and 89% were highly satisfied with the intervention. Among participants with complete data, the average percent caloric goal obtained was 82.4% (IQR: 21.7).

Conclusions

This intervention was feasible and acceptable to patients undergoing HPB surgery. Preliminary efficacy data showed most participants were able to meet calorie intake goals. Future studies should examine intervention efficacy in a larger, randomized controlled trial.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov. Registered 16 September 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04091165.

Empiric nasogastric decompression after pancreaticoduodenectomy is not necessary

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of routine NGT decompression after PD on postoperative outcomes in the era of an enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing PD between January 2015 and October 2017 at our institution was performed comparing routine post-operative NGT decompression versus omission. The incidence of delayed gastric emptying, post-operative pancreatic fistula, hospital length of stay, operative time, 30-day readmission rate as well the time to first oral intake were evaluated.

RESULTS

Out of 149 patients who underwent PD, 65 maintained post-operative NGT decompression while post-operative NGT decompression was omitted in 84 patients. No differences were noted in delayed gastric emptying rates (both p>0.05). The median length of stay (9 days for NGT group versus 8.5 days for no NGT group) and 30-day readmission rates (13.8% versus 15.5%, respectively) were similar (p=0.781). Compared with patients who had routine post-operative NGT placed, those who had omission of a post-operative NGT had a lower need for reinsertion, shorter time to PO intake, and a lower likelihood of extended length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

In the era of ERAS protocols, we observed no association between routine post-operative NGT decompression after PD and improved postoperative outcomes.

Postoperative biliary anastomotic strictures after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Biliary anastomotic stricture (BAS) is an uncommon complication of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). As PDs are performed more frequently, BAS may become a more common pathologic entity requiring clinical engagement. The aim of this study was to report the incidence of BAS in the modern era of pancreatic surgery and identify risk factors associated with it.

METHODS

Patients undergoing PD at the Johns Hopkins Hospital between 2007 and 2016 were identified using an institutional registry and clinicopathological features were analyzed to identify risk factors associated with BAS.

RESULTS

Of 2125 patients identified, 103 (4.9%) developed BAS. Factors independently associated with BAS included laparoscopic approach (HR:2.83,95%CI:1.35-5.92, p = 0.006), postoperative pancreatic fistula (HR:2.45,95%CI:1.56-4.16,p < 0.001), postoperative bile leak (BL) (HR:5.26,95%CI:2.45-11.28,p < 0.001), and administration of adjuvant radiation therapy (HR:6.01,95%CI:3.19-11.34,p < 0.001). Malignant pathology was associated with lower rates of BAS (HR:0.52,95%CI:0.30-0.92, p = 0.025). BL was associated with higher rates of early-BAS (HR:16.49,95%CI:3.28-82.94, p = 0.001) while use of Vicryl suture for biliary enteric anastomosis was associated with lower rates of early-BAS (HR:0.20,95%CI:0.05-0.93, p = 0.041).

CONCLUSION

Approximately 5% of patients undergoing PD experience BAS. Multiple factors are associated with the development and timing of BAS.

Roux-en-Y Reconstruction Following Distal Gastrectomy Reduced Endoscopic Reflux Esophagitis in Older Adults: Propensity Score–Matching Analysis

Objective

This study aimed to examine the functional outcomes of Roux-en-Y (RY) and Billroth I (BI) reconstruction methods following distal gastrectomy in patients ages ≥75 years with gastric cancer.

Summary of background data

RY and BI reconstructions are commonly performed after distal gastrectomy. However, no study has compared the 2 procedures in older adults.

Methods

We identified older patients who underwent RY (n = 103) or BI (n = 71) reconstruction following distal gastrectomy from 2011 to 2018 in our database. Patients in the RY and BI groups were matched by propensity scores, and each group included 62 patients. We compared short-term surgical outcomes and clinical findings at 1 year postoperatively. Additionally, risk factors for endoscopic reflux esophagitis following distal gastrectomy were evaluated.

Results

Reflux esophagitis, bile reflux, and remnant gastritis were significantly less frequent in RY reconstruction than in BI reconstruction. Moreover, both BI reconstruction and preoperative hiatus hernias were independent risk factors for postoperative endoscopic reflux esophagitis. Although the incidence of postoperative surgical complications following RY and BI was similar, RY was found to cause delayed gastric emptying more frequently than BI.

Conclusion

RY reconstruction is a favorable procedure to prevent reflux esophagitis in older patients, particularly in those with hiatal hernia.

Risk-Stratified Pancreatectomy Clinical Pathway Implementation and Delayed Gastric Emptying

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a frequent complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) that impairs recovery and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact risk-stratified pancreatectomy clinical pathways (RSPCPs) had on delayed gastric emptying (DGE) and identify factors associated with DGE in a contemporary period.

METHODS

A single-institution, prospective database was queried for consecutive PDs during July 2011-November 2019. Using international definitions, DGE rates were compared between periods before and after RSPCPs were implemented in 2016, classifying patients according to their postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) risk. Risk factors were analyzed to identify modifiable targets.

RESULTS

Among 724 elective PDs, 552 (76%) were for adenocarcinoma and 172 (24%) for other diagnoses. Of the 197 (27%) patients with DGE, 119 (16%) had type A, 41 (6%) type B, and 38 (5%) type C. In the overall cohort, DGE rates were higher with pylorus-preserving vs. classic hand-sewn reconstruction (odds ratio [OR] - 1.84; p < 0.001), postoperative abscess (OR - 2.54; p = 0.003), and non-white patients (p = 0.007), but lower after implementation of RSPCPs (OR - 0.34, p < 0.001). In the 374 patients treated with RSPCPs, only 17% (n = 65/374) developed DGE. Patients with protocol-compliant NGT removal ≤ 48 h were less likely to experience DGE (OR - 1.46, p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that implementation of preoperatively assigned RSPCPs as a care bundle was the most important factor in decreasing DGE. These gains were accentuated in patients who underwent early nasogastric tube removal and had a classic hand-sewn gastro-jejunostomy reconstruction. Application of these modifiable factors is generalizable with low implementation barriers.

Clinical Efficacy of the Preservation of the Hepatic Branch of the Vagus Nerve on Delayed Gastric Emptying After Laparoscopic Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a common complication following laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD), although it remains incompletely understood, and only few studies have investigated the clinical benefits of hepatic branch of the vagus nerve (HBVN) preservation on DGE after LPD until now. We intended to evaluate the effect of preservation of the HBVN during LPD on the incidence of DGE.

METHODS

A total of 274 consecutive LPDs performed at a single center between July 2014 and December 2019 with available videos were retrospectively reviewed. DGE was defined according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) criteria, and HBVN condition during the LPD procedure was evaluated through a video review. Risk factors associated with DGE were assessed by performing univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Postoperative outcomes between the HBVN-preserved and HBVN-injury groups were compared before and after propensity score matching (PSM).

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-six (56.93%) patients underwent LPD with HBVN-preserved and 118 (43.07%) with HBVN injury. DGE occurred in 33.2% of patients (n = 91) with grades B and C occurring at 13.9% (n = 38) and 7.7% (n = 21), respectively. Longer operative time, more EIBL, HBVN injury, POPF (grades B and C), postoperative hemorrhage, intra-abdominal infection, and Clavien-Dindo ≥III were identified as risk factors for DGE in the univariate analysis. Then, in the multivariate analysis, HBVN injury and intra-abdominal infection were found to be independent risk factors affecting the incidence of DGE (any grade) or clinically relevant DGE (grades B and C). Furthermore, the prevalence of DGE was significantly higher in the HBVN-injury group than in the HBVN-preserved group before and after PSM analysis (46.61% vs. 23.08%, P<0.001; 42.59% vs. 23.15%, P=0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

HBVN preservation during LPD might be associated with a reduced incidence of DGE as a framework for prospective quality improvement.

Modified Technique for Wirsung-Pancreatogastric Anastomosis after Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Single Center Experience and Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

The mortality rate following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) has been decreasing over the past few years; nonetheless, the morbidity rate remains elevated. The most common complications after PD are post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and delayed gastric emptying (DGE) syndrome. The issue as to which is the best reconstruction method for the treatment of the pancreatic remnant after PD is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the morbidity rate in 100 consecutive PD reconstructed with Wirsung-Pancreato-Gastro-Anastomosis (WPGA), performed by a single surgeon applying a personal modification of the pancreatic reconstruction technique.

METHODS

During an 8-year period (May 2012 to March 2020), 100 consecutive patients underwent PD reconstructed with WPGA. The series included 57 males and 43 females (M/F 1.32), with a mean age of 68 (range 41-86) years. The 90-day morbidity and mortality were retrospectively analyzed. Additionally, a systematic review was conducted, comparing our technique with the existing literature on the topic.

RESULTS

We observed eight cases of clinically relevant POPF (8%), three cases of "primary" DGE (3%) and four patients suffering "secondary" DGE. The surgical morbidity and mortality rate were 26% and 6%, respectively. The median hospital stay was 13.6 days. The systematic review of the literature confirmed the originality of our modified technique for Wirsung-Pancreato-Gastro-Anastomosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our modified double-layer WPGA is associated with a very low incidence of POPF and DGE. Also, the technique avoids the risk of acute hemorrhage of the pancreatic parenchyma.

Gastrocolic ligament lymph-node dissection may increase the incidence of delayed gastric emptying after colon cancer surgery with D3 lymphadenectomy

PURPOSE

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is associated with prolonged hospital stay and higher healthcare costs. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for DGE after D3 radical resection for colon cancer and to build a nomogram for this complication.

METHODS

We analyzed, retrospectively, 1160 consecutive patients who underwent surgery with D3 lymphadenectomy for colon cancer between January, 2012 and June, 2018. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors for DGE and to build a DGE nomogram model.

RESULTS

There were ten, six and four patients with DGE classified as grades A, B and C, respectively, representing a DGE rate of 1.7%. Multivariate analysis revealed that age (P = 0.001), dissection of the gastrocolic ligament lymph nodes (GCLNs) (P = 0.001), surgical duration (P = 0.017) and preoperative hemoglobin level (P = 0.016) were independent risk factors, and were included to build a predictive model for DGE. The therapeutic index of GCLN dissection was approximately half that of D3 lymphadenectomy (2.9 vs. 5.6).

CONCLUSIONS

DGE is more likely to develop in patients aged > 75 years, those with a preoperative hemoglobin < 90 g/L, those with a surgical duration > 210 min, and those who undergo GCLN dissection. The nomogram may facilitate the stratification of patients at risk for DGE following D3 lymphadenectomy for colon cancer. Assessing long-term outcomes will help to evaluate the survival benefit of GCLN dissection in the future, to avoid unnecessary dissection and reduce the incidence of DGE.

Distal Pancreatectomy with Celiac Axis Resection: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Major vascular invasion represents one of the most frequent reasons to consider pancreatic adenocarcinomas unresectable, although in the last decades, demolitive surgeries such as distal pancreatectomy with celiac axis resection (DP-CAR) have become a therapeutical option.

METHODS

A meta-analysis of studies comparing DP-CAR and standard DP in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma was conducted. Moreover, a systematic review of studies analyzing oncological, postoperative and survival outcomes of DP-CAR was conducted.

RESULTS

Twenty-four articles were selected for the systematic review, whereas eleven were selected for the meta-analysis, for a total of 1077 patients. Survival outcomes between the two groups were similar in terms of 1 year overall survival (OS) (odds ratio (OR) 0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.34 to 1.31, p = 0.24). Patients who received DP-CAR were more likely to have T4 tumors (OR 28.45, 95% CI 10.46 to 77.37, p < 0.00001) and positive margins (R+) (OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.24 to 4.17, p = 0.008). Overall complications (OR, 1.72, 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.58, p = 0.008) were more frequent in the DP-CAR group, whereas rates of pancreatic fistula (OR 1.16, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.65, p = 0.41) were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

DP-CAR was not associated with higher mortality compared to standard DP; however, overall morbidity was higher. Celiac axis involvement should no longer be considered a strict contraindication to surgery in patients with locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Considering the different baseline tumor characteristics, DP-CAR may need to be compared with palliative therapies instead of standard DP.

Complete resection of the gastric antrum decreased incidence and severity of delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is the main complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), but the mechanism is still unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of complete resection of the gastric antrum in decreasing incidence and severity of DGE after PD.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: expanded resection (ER group), complete resection (CR group), and incomplete resection (IR group) of the gastric antrum. The tension (g) of remnant stomach contraction was observed. We analyzed the histological morphology of the gastric wall by different excisional methods after distal gastrectomy. Moreover, patients underwent PD at our department between January 2012 and May 2016 were included in the study. These cases were divided into IR group and CR group of the gastric antrum, and the clinical data were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The ex vivo remnant stomachs of CR group exhibited much greater contraction tension than others (P < 0.05). The contraction tension of the remnant stomach increased with increasing acetylcholine concentration, while remained stable at the concentration of 10 × 10-5 mol/L. Furthermore, 174 consecutive patients were included and retrospectively analyzed in the study. The incidence of DGE was significantly lower (3.5% vs. 21.3%, P < 0.01) in CR group than in IR group. In addition, hematoxylin-eosin staining analyses of the gastric wall confirmed that the number of transected circular smooth muscle bundles were higher in IR group than in CR group (8.24 ± 0.65 vs. 3.76 ± 0.70, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The complete resection of the gastric antrum is associated with decreased incidence and severity of DGE after PD. Gastric electrophysiological and physiopathological disorders caused by damage to gastric smooth muscles might be the mechanism underlying DGE.

Roux-en-Y and Billroth II Reconstruction after Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Meta-Analysis of Complications

Objective

To evaluate Roux-en-Y and Billroth II reconstruction following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials that compared Roux-en-Y and Billroth II reconstruction following PD up to December 2019. RevMan 5.3 software was used for the statistical analysis.

Results

Four RCTs and five controlled clinical trials were included, with a total of 1,072 patients (500 and 572 patients in the Roux-en-Y and Billroth II groups, respectively). No significant differences in delayed gastric emptying (DGE), A-grade DGE, B-grade DGE, or C-grade DGE were observed between the Roux-en-Y and Billroth II reconstruction groups after PD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50–2.03, P = 0.98; OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.17–1.45, P = 0.20; OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.29–1.38, P = 0.25; and OR = 2.13, 95% CI: 0.38–11.99, P = 0.39). No significant difference in the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula, abscess, bile leaks, infection, postoperative bleeding, or the length of the postoperative hospital stay was observed between the Roux-en-Y and Billroth II groups (P > 0.05), but the operation time was significantly different (mean difference [MD] = 31.65, 95% CI: 7.14–56.17, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Billroth II reconstruction after PD did not significantly reduce the incidence of DGE or other complications but shortened the operation time compared to Roux-en-Y reconstruction. However, the results must be verified by further high-quality, large RCTs or controlled clinical trials.

Laparoscopic enucleation of pancreatic tumours: a single-institution experience of 66 cases

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic enucleation of pancreatic tumours is seemingly a simple procedure, but challenging as the tumour is deeply embedded in the pancreatic parenchyma. Our study reports a single-centre experience for these cases.

METHODS

Cases with a tumour underwent laparoscopic enucleation from January 2014 to March 2020 in our hospital were collected and analysed.

RESULTS

Sixty-six cases were enrolled, including 21 men and 45 women with an average age of 43.6 ± 16.7 years old. The mean size of tumours was 2.7 ± 1.8 cm. The tumours were mainly located at the pancreatic head and neck (63.6%). The most common pathological diagnoses were insulinomas, followed by solid pseudopapillary tumours. Incidences of overall complications and pancreatic fistula (PF, Grade B) were 24.2% and 19.7%, respectively. No patient developed PF (Grade C) or died. Cases were divided into two groups according to whether the tumour was deeply embedded in the pancreas. Compared to the group with a superficial tumour (n = 36), the group with an embedded tumour (n = 30) had a longer operation time and drainage duration and a smaller tumour size (P < 0.05), but did not increase the incidence of complications and PF (Grade B/C).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic enucleation of tumours that were deeply embedded in the pancreas was technically feasible and safe.

Delayed Gastric Emptying as a Complication of Whipple's Procedure: Could it be Much Less Frequent than Anticipated? Could the Definition Be Revised? A Single Center Experience

Objective

Whipple's procedure for periampullary tumors has significant risks and complications. Delayed gastric emptying has the highest rate. Although the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery defined (ISGPS) this entity, multiple definitions still exist among authors. This study aims to revise the definition.

Method

Seventy-three consecutive patients were analyzed for complications, particularly delayed gastric emptying. All patients underwent a standardized surgery. Procedures used for total pancreatectomies and benign diseases were excluded.

Results

A total of 73 patients were included in the study. Intra-abdominal complications were observed in 15 (20.6%) patients. Grade C delayed gastric emptying was observed in only one (1.4%) patient. Grade A and B disease were observed in three (4.1%) patients. However, they responded well to conservative methods, causing no extra morbidity.

Conclusion

Grade A and B delayed gastric emptying can be observed after any gastrointestinal surgery. These patients respond well to simple conservative methods with nasogastric intubation. Drainage of the intra-abdominal collection resolves the emptying problem (if any). Only grade C disease without other intra-abdominal complications can be accepted as a complication of this procedure. ISGPS definition does not include the cause. Thus, the definition and grading can be revised.

Early postoperative fluid retention is a strong predictor for complications after pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Perioperative fluid overload has been reported to increase complications after a variety of operative procedures. This study was conducted to investigate the incidence of fluid retention after pancreatic resection and its association with postoperative complications.

METHODS

Data from 1174 patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy between 2010 and 2016 were collected from the Swedish National Pancreatic and Periampullary Cancer Registry. Early postoperative fluid retention was defined as a weight gain ≥2 kg on postoperative day 1. Outcome measures were overall complications, as well as procedure-specific complications.

RESULTS

The weight change on postoperative day 1 ranged from -1 kg to +9 kg. A total of 782 patients (66.6%) were considered to have early fluid retention. Patients with fluid retention had significantly higher rates of total complications (p = 0.002), surgical complications (p = 0.001), pancreatic anastomotic leakage (p = 0.018) and wound infection (p = 0.023). Multivariable logistic regression confirmed early fluid retention as an independent risk factor for total complications (OR 1.46; p = 0.003), surgical complications (OR 1.49; p = 0.002), pancreatic anastomotic leakage (OR 1.48; p = 0.027) and wound infection (OR 1.84; p = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

Fluid retention is common after elective pancreatic resection, and its associated with an increased rate of postoperative complications.

Use of Video Review to Investigate Technical Factors That May Be Associated With Delayed Gastric Emptying After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Importance

Technical proficiency at robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) and video assessment are promising tools for understanding postoperative outcomes. Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) remains a major driver of cost and morbidity after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Objective

To determine if technical variables during RPD are associated with postoperative DGE.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective study was conducted of technical assessment performed in all available videos (n = 192) of consecutive RPDs performed at a single academic institution from October 3, 2008, through September 27, 2016.

Exposures

Video review of gastrojejunal anastomosis during RPD.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Delayed gastric emptying was classified according to International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery criteria. Video analysis reviewed technical variables specific in the construction of the gastrojejunal anastomosis. Using multivariate analysis, DGE was correlated with known patient variables and technical variables, individually and combined.

Results

Of 410 RPDs performed, video was available for 192 RPDs (80 women and 112 men; mean [SD] age, 65.7 [11.1] years). Delayed gastric emptying occurred in 41 patients (21.4%; grade A, 15; grade B, 14; and grade C, 12). Patient variables contributing to DGE on multivariate analysis were advanced age (odds ratio [OR] 1.11; 95% CI, 1.05-1.16; P < .001), small pancreatic duct size (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.72-0.98; P = .03), and postoperative pseudoaneurysm (OR, 17.29; 95% CI, 2.34-127.78; P = .005). However, technical variables contributing to decreased DGE on multivariate analysis included the flow angle (within 30° of vertical) between the stomach and efferent jejunal limb (OR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.08-0.79; P = .02), greater length of the gastrojejunal anastomosis (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.20-0.77; P = .006), and a robotic-sewn anastomosis (robotic suture vs stapler: OR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.09-0.95; P = .04).

Conclusions and Relevance

This study examines modifiable technical factors through the use of review of video obtained at the time of operation and suggests ways by which the surgical construction of the gastrojejunal anastomosis during RPD may reduce the incidence of DGE as a framework for prospective quality improvement.