Pylorus-preserving gastrectomy for early gastric cancer

Pylorus-preserving gastrectomy(PPG)has been widely accepted as a function-preserving gastrectomy for middle-third early gastric cancer(EGC)with a distal tumor border at least 4 cm proximal to the pylorus.The procedure essentially preserves the function of the pyloric sphincter,which requires to preserve the upper third of the stomach and a pyloric cuff at least 2.5 cm.The suprapyloric and infrapyloric vessels are usually preserved,as are the hepatic and pyloric branches of the vagus nerve.Compared with distal gastrectomy,PPG has significant advantages in preventing dumping syndrome,body weight loss and bile reflux gastritis.The postoperative complications after PPG have reached an acceptable level.PPG can be considered a safe,effective,and superior choice in EGC,and is expected to be extensively performed in the future.

Laparoscopy-assisted pylorus-preserving gastrectomy for early gastric cancer: A retrospective study of long-term functional outcomes and quality of life

BACKGROUND Laparoscopy-assisted pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (LAPPG) was known to have benefits of function-preserving surgery compared to laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG). However, in clinical settings, delayed gastric emptying and esophageal reflux following LAPPG can be serious issues, making surgeons reluctant to perform LAPPG. It is unclear that LAPPG had better longterm functional outcomes and quality of life compared to LADG. AIM To evaluate the long-term functional outcomes and patient-reported quality of life of LAPPG compared to those of LADG. METHODS We reviewed the clinicopathological data of 195 patients who underwent LADG with Billroth II anastomosis and 101 patients who underwent LAPPG for cT1N0 gastric cancer in the middle third of the stomach between 2012 and 2015. Postoperative complications, nutritional parameters, and survey results of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Questionnaire C30 and STO22 questionnaire were compared between the two groups. RESULTS The serum hemoglobin level was significantly higher in the LAPPG group than in the LADG group (P < 0.001). In the endoscopic findings, incidence of bile reflux was lower (P < 0.001);however, the incidence of residual food was higher in the LAPPG group than in the LADG group (P < 0.001). Regarding the quality of life score, the LAPPG group had a better physical functioning score (86.7 vs 90.0, P = 0.032) but also greater pain and reflux when compared to the LADG group [8.3 vs 16.7 in pain, 11.1 (interquartile range, 0, 22.2) vs 11.1 (interquartile range, 11.1, 33.3) in reflux, P = 0.034 and 0.001, respectively]. CONCLUSION LAPPG is beneficial to recovery of anemia and to bile reflux, however, it might be unfavorable in terms of pain and reflux symptoms compared to LADG with Billroth II anastomosis.

Stapled gastro/duodenojejunostomy shortens reconstruction time during pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy

AIM:To investigate whether a stapled technique is superior to the conventional hand-sewn technique for gastro/duodenojejunostomy during pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy(PpPD).METHODS:In October 2010,we introduced a mechanical anastomotic technique of gastro-or duodenojejunostomy using staplers during PpPD.We compared clinical outcomes between 19 patients who underwent PpPD with a stapled gastro/duodenojejunostomy(stapled anastomosis group)and 19 patients who underwent PpPD with a conventional hand-sewn duodenojejunostomy(hand-sewn anastomosis group).RESULTS:The time required for reconstruction was significantly shorter in the stapled anastomosis group than in the hand-sewn anastomosis group(186.0±29.4 min vs 219.7±50.0 min,P=0.02).In addition,intraoperative blood loss was significantly less(391.0±212.0 mL vs 647.1±482.1 mL,P=0.03)and the time to oral intake was significantly shorter(5.4±1.7d vs 11.3±7.9 d,P=0.002)in the stapled anastomosis group than in the hand-sewn anastomosis group.There were no differences in the incidences of delayed gastric emptying and other postoperative complications between the groups.CONCLUSION:These results suggest that stapled gastro/duodenojejunostomy shortens reconstruction time during PpPD without affecting the incidence of delayed gastric emptying.

Relationships between Length of the Antral Cuff and Postgastrectomy Disorders and Gastric Empting Function in Patients after Pylorus-Preserving Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer

Objectives: To clarify the optimal length of the antral cuff (LAC) in patients after pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (PPG), we investigated relationships between LAC and postgastrectomy disorder (PGD) such as postprandial abdominal fullness (PAF), and between LAC and gastric empting function (GEF) in PPG patients. Background: The main cause of PGD in PPG patients has been considered to be LAC. Relationships between LAC and PGD and GEF in PPG patients are still unknown. Methods: Of 50 patients who underwent PPG in our hospital from January 2001 to December 2015 were divided into 2 groups [Group A, short LAC of 1.5 to 2.5 cm (n = 24);Group B, long LAC of 2.6 to 3.5 cm (n = 26)]. The relationships among LAC, PGD, and GEF were retrospectively studied. Results: LAC was clearly shorter in group A than group B (P < 0.01). PAF, appetite and food consumption per meal were clearly more favorable in group B than in group A (P < 0.01, respectively). Symptomatic reflux esophagitis (RE), early dumping syndrome, decreased percent body weight for pre-illness, endoscopic RE and endoscopic gastritis in the remnant stomach were more frequent in group A than group B. Gastric stasis in the remnant stomach was clearly more frequent in group A than group B (P < 0.01). GEF with the solid diet in group A was clearly more delayed than in group B (P Conclusions: Patients with a short LAC showed worse postoperative QOL and delayed GEF with the solid diet compared with a long LAC.

Relationship between Gastric Stasis in the Remnant Stomach and Interdigestive Migrating Complex in Patients after Pylorus-Preserving Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer

Objectives: The demerit of pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (PPG) is gastric stasis in the remnant stomach (GSRS). We investigated the relationship between postgastrectomy disorder (PGD), especially GSRS, and interdigestive migrating complex (IMC) in PPG patients. Background: The cause of GSRS is still unknown. Therefore, we studied relationship between GSRS and IMC. Methods: 24 PPG patients (16 men and 8 women;mean, 61.2 years) were divided into groups A (12 patients without GSRS) and B (12 patients with GSRS). The relationship between GSRS and IMC was studied. Results: Length of the antral cuff (LAC) was significantly longer in group A than group B (P < 0.0001). IMC and appetite were significantly more common in group A than in group B (P = 0.0465, P = 0.0186, respectively). Postprandial abdominal fullness (PAF) was significantly more common in group B than in group A (P = 0.0061). Reflux esophagitis (RE) and body weight loss were found in group B more than in group A. Dumping syndrome was not found in either group. Endoscopic gastritis was found significantly more in group B than in group A (P = 0.0047). Conclusions: In PPG patients with a short LAC, GSRS may occur by the decrease of IMC occurrence.

Hepatopancreatoduodenectomy for the treatment of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

To the Editor:Extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma(ECC)is an uncommon neoplasm associated with a poor prognosis[1-3].Surgical resection represents the only curative approach,since systemic treatments have scarce efficacy in achieving disease control.However,only 10%-40%of patients with ECC are resectable at diagnosis[1].Ma-jor hepatectomy and portal lymphadenectomy are usually required for hilar ECC,while pancreatoduodenectomy is the standard operation for distal ECC[3-5].However,ECC may spread horizon-tally along the biliary tree,causing tumor involvement of the entire extrahepatic biliary system.In these circumstances,hep-atopancreatoduodenectomy(HPD)has been proposed as a pro-cedure with curative intent[2,6,7].

Safety and feasibility of modified duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy during pancreatoduodenectomy: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND Pancreatoduodenectomy(PD)is the most effective surgical procedure to remove a pancreatic tumor,but the prevalent postoperative complications,including postoperative pancreatic fistula(POPF),can be life-threatening.Thus far,there is no consensus about the prevention of POPF.AIM To determine possible prognostic factors and investigate the clinical effects of modified duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy(PJ)on POPF development.METHODS We retrospectively collected and analyzed the data of 215 patients who under-went PD between January 2017 and February 2022 in our surgery center.The risk factors for POPF were analyzed by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Then,we stratified patients by anastomotic technique(end-to-side invagination PJ vs modified duct-to-mucosa PJ)to conduct a comparative study.RESULTS A total of 108 patients received traditional end-to-side invagination PJ,and 107 received modified duct-to-mucosa PJ.Overall,58.6%of patients had various complications,and 0.9%of patients died after PD.Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that anastomotic approaches,main pancreatic duct(MPD)diameter and pancreatic texture were significantly associated with the incidence of POPF.Additionally,the POPF incidence and operation time in patients receiving modified duct-to-mucosa PJ were 11.2%and 283.4 min,respectively,which were significantly lower than those in patients receiving traditional end-to-side invagination PJ(27.8%and 333.2 minutes).CONCLUSION Anastomotic approach,MPD diameter and pancreatic texture are major risk factors for POPF development.Compared with traditional end-to-side invagination PJ,modified duct-to-mucosa PJ is a simpler and more efficient technique that results in a lower incidence of POPF.Further studies are needed to validate our findings and explore the clinical applicability of our technique for laparoscopic and robotic PD.

Predictive value of preoperative albumin-bilirubin score and other risk factors for short-term outcomes after open pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND Pancreatoduodenectomy represents a complex procedure involving extensive organ resection and multiple alimentary reconstructions.It is still associated with high morbidity,even in high-volume centres.Prediction tools including preoperative patient-related factors to preoperatively identify patients at high risk for postoperative complications could enable tailored perioperative management and improve patient outcomes.AIM To evaluate the clinical significance of preoperative albumin-bilirubin score and other risk factors in relation to short-term postoperative outcomes in patients after open pancreatoduodenectomy.METHODS This retrospective study included all patients who underwent open pancreatic head resection(pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy or Whipple resection)for various pathologies during a five-year period(2017-2021)in a tertiary care setting at University Medical Centre Ljubljana,Slovenia and Cattinara Hospital,Trieste,Italy.Short-term postoperative outcomes,namely,postoperative complications,postoperative pancreatic fistula,reoperation,and mortality,were evaluated in association with albumin-bilirubin score and other risk factors.Multiple logistic regression models were built to identify risk factors associated with these short-term postoperative outcomes.RESULTS Data from 347 patients were collected.Postoperative complications,major postoperative complications,postoperative pancreatic fistula,reoperation,and mortality were observed in 52.7%,22.2%,23.9%,21.3%,and 5.2%of patients,respectively.There was no statistically significant association between the albumin-bilirubin score and any of these short-term postoperative complications based on univariate analysis.When controlling for other predictor variables in a logistic regression model,soft pancreatic texture was statistically significantly associated with postoperative complications[odds ratio(OR):2.09;95%confidence interval(95%CI):1.19-3.67];male gender(OR:2.12;95%CI:1.15-3.93),soft pancreatic texture(OR:3.06;95%CI:1.56-5.97),and blood loss(OR:1.07;95%CI:1.00-1.14)were statistically significantly associated with major postoperative complications;soft pancreatic texture was statistically significantly associated with the development of postoperative pancreatic fistula(OR:5.11;95%CI:2.38-10.95);male gender(OR:1.97;95%CI:1.01-3.83),soft pancreatic texture(OR:2.95;95%CI:1.42-6.11),blood loss(OR:1.08;95%CI:1.01-1.16),and resection due to duodenal carcinoma(OR:6.58;95%CI:1.20-36.15)were statistically significantly associated with reoperation.CONCLUSION The albumin-bilirubin score failed to predict short-term postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy.However,other risk factors seem to influence postoperative outcomes,including male sex,soft pancreatic texture,blood loss,and resection due to duodenal carcinoma.

保留十二指肠胰头全切除术11例临床分析

目的 探讨保留十二指肠胰头全切除术(DPPHRt)对胰头良性及低度恶性疾病的治疗经验,包括手术适应证、手术并发症尤其是胆管并发症的防治。方法 回顾性分析2021年7月至2023年5月苏州大学附属第一医院11例施行DPPHRt患者的病例资料。结果 本组共11例,其中男7例,女4例,平均年龄55.6岁,平均手术时间249(165~390)min,平均术中出血量187(50~500)mL,平均术后住院时间27.6(12~55)d。疾病类型:慢性肿块型胰腺炎2例(1例伴胰管结石),慢性胰腺炎1例(车祸外伤所致),胰腺神经内分泌肿瘤1例,胰头导管内乳头状瘤(IPMN)5例,胰腺浆液性囊腺瘤1例,胰头黏液性囊肿1例。手术方式均为开腹手术,无手术死亡。术后发生胰瘘3例(均为B级胰瘘),胆瘘3例,胆总管狭窄3例,腹腔出血1例,腹腔感染1例,胃排空延迟2例,经非手术治疗均治愈出院。术后获得随访11例,随访时间为2个月至2年,无复发、内外分泌功能减退、胃排空延迟等远期并发症发生,无死亡病例。结论 DPPHRt对胰头良性与低度恶性疾病是一种有效的手术方式。

胰十二指肠切除术后胰瘘及胰瘘合并出血的预防及治疗策略

目的探讨胰十二指肠切除术后胰瘘及胰瘘合并出血的预防及治疗策略。方法选取广东省人民医院自2019年8月至2022年12月收治的90例拟行胰十二指肠切除术的患者为研究对象。根据是否发生术后胰瘘将患者分为术后胰瘘组(n=35)与术后无胰瘘组(n=55);根据是否合并出血将35例术后胰瘘患者分为胰瘘合并出血组(n=10)与胰瘘无出血组(n=25)。采用χ^(2)检验或Fisher精确检验进行单因素分析,有统计学差异的变量进一步行逐步回归变量筛选,多因素logistic回归分析确定发生胰瘘和术后胰瘘合并出血的独立危险因素。结果90例患者均顺利完成胰十二指肠切除术,术后胰瘘发生率为38.9%(35/90)。两组患者胰管直径(P=0.013)、术中失血量(P=0.045)、吻合方式(P=0.045)、残余胰腺质地(P=0.010)比较,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.05)。多因素logistic回归分析结果显示,胰腺质地软、胰腺导管直径<3 mm、术中出血量≥300 mL以及胰肠吻合方式为胰十二指肠切除术后胰瘘的独立危险因素。在发生术后胰瘘的患者中,多因素logistic回归分析结果显示,胰瘘量>100 mL/d、术后胰瘘持续时间>7 d是胰十二指肠切除术后胰瘘合并出血的独立危险因素。结论胰十二指肠切除术后胰瘘的发生风险较高,重视关注术前胰管直径及规范化判断胰腺质地,有助于预防术后胰瘘。术中仔细止血,尽量避免术后早期出血,可以降低术后B、C级胰瘘的发生率。胰瘘患者当胰瘘量>100 mL/d、术后胰瘘持续时间>7 d时要警惕出血的发生。

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

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

手术台次对胰十二指肠切除术后早期转归的影响

目的分析手术台次对胰十二指肠切除术(Whipple手术)术中出血量和早期转归的影响。方法收集2017至2021年接受Whipple手术的胰腺癌患者519例,男306例,女213例,年龄32~86岁,BMI 15~35 kg/m^(2),ASAⅠ—Ⅲ级。依据手术台次分为两组:台次≤2组和台次>2组。将患者术中出血量作为主要观察指标,晶体输液量、胶体输液量,术后胰瘘、胆瘘、乳糜瘘、腹部出血、肺部感染、腹腔感染、胃排空障碍、发热等并发症发生率,术后住院时间为次要观察指标。采用Logistic回归分析手术台次与术中大出血和早期转归指标的相关性。结果共纳入患者519例,其中台次≤2组有415例(800%)。与台次≤2组比较,台次>2组术中大出血发生率明显增加(RR=1669,95%CI 1146~2430,P=0011)。两组晶体输液量、胶体输液量、住院期间胰瘘、胆瘘、乳糜瘘、腹部出血、肺部感染、腹腔感染、胃排空障碍、发热等术后并发症发生率和术后住院时间差异无统计学意义。多因素Logistic回归分析示术中大出血的危险因素为手术台次>2(OR=2269,95%CI 1318~3907,P=0003)和手术时间延长(OR=1012,95%CI 1009~1016,P<0001)。结论手术台次>2及手术时间延长会增加胰腺癌患者Whipple手术中发生大出血的风险,但对术后住院时间和住院期间术后并发症无明显影响。

胰十二指肠切除术后迟发性出血行DSA介入栓塞治疗的临床效果

目的 探讨胰十二指肠切除术(PD)后患者迟发性出血行数字减影血管造影(DSA)介入栓塞治疗的疗效和临床意义。方法 回顾性分析湖北省中西医结合医院2016年1月至2023年1月31例因PD术后迟发性出血行DSA介入栓塞治疗的临床资料,评估介入治疗的临床效果。结果 本研究PD术后迟发性出血发生率为6.37%(31/487),31例迟发性出血患者中首次DSA阳性22例(71%),14例伴有假性动脉瘤形成。出血部位包括胃十二指肠动脉9例,肝总动脉7例,肠系膜上动脉分支6例,肝固有动脉5例,脾动脉起始3例,胃左动脉1例。行微弹簧圈栓塞12例,微弹簧圈加明胶海绵栓塞8例,覆膜支架9例,明胶海绵栓塞2例。29例(94%)行DSA介入治疗达到彻底止血效果;2例再发出血,行手术止血处理。结论 DSA及栓塞止血创伤小,可精准发现PD术后出血血管,及时进行栓塞,止血效果安全有效,可作为PD术后迟发性出血首选治疗方法。

Comparison of Wirsung-jejunal duct-tomucosa and dunking technique for pancreatojejunostomy after pancreatoduodenectomy

Pancreato-enteric reconstruction after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is still a source of debate because of the high incidence of complications. Among the various types of pancreato-jejunostomies we don't know yet which is the best in terms of anastomotic failure and related complications rates. Wirsung-jejunal duct-to-mucosa anastomosis (WJ) and 'dunking' pancreato-jejunal anastomosis (DPJ) are the two most used ones worldwide but conflicting results are reported. To determine which is the safer anastomosis and to define when an anastomosis should be preferred, we retrospectively reviewed two groups of patients who underwent WJ or DPJ. METHODS:Twenty-three patients underwent PD with WJ (n=17) with dilated (WJD) (n=9) or not-dilated Wirsung's duct (WJND) (n=8) or with a DPJ (n=6) over a 3-year period at a single institution. RESULTS: The complications rate was high in all groups of patients (33.3% in WJD, 37.5% in WJND and 66.7% in DPJ). A pancreatic fistula developed in one patient in each group (11. 1% in WJD, 12. 5% in WJND and 16. 7% in DPJ). All these patients were managed conservatively. Anastomotic disruption took place in the WJ patients especially in the WJND group (n=2) compared to the WJD (n=1) (25% vs 11.1%) or DPJ groups (0%) : these three patients required a re-operation. Overall, the anastomotic defects were higher in patients who underwent WJND (37.5%), compared to WJD (22.2%) and to DPJ (16.7%). However, no statistical differences were found among the groups. Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) along with anastomotic defects were responsible for a prolonged hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS:Our results were not able to demonstrate any statistical difference between the two different techniques in preventing anastomotic failure. WJ can represent a valid choice in case of a dilated duct and a firm, fibrotic enlarged gland that could not be properly invaginated in a small jejunal loop. DGE may occur in those patients who experienced an anastomotic failure and required a TPN regimen with a prolonged hospital stay.

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

BACKGROUND:A number of definitions have been used for delayed gastric emptying(DGE) after pancreatoduodenectomy and the reported rates varied widely.The International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery(ISGPS) definition is the current standard but it is not used universally.In this comprehensive review,we aimed to determine the acceptance rate of ISGPS definition of DGE,the incidence of DGE after pancreatoduodenectomy and the effect of various technical modifications on its incidence.DATA SOURCE:We searched PubM ed for studies regarding DGE after pancreatoduodenectomy that were published from 1 January 1980 to 1 July 2015 and extracted data on DGE definition,DGE rates and comparison of DGE rates among different technical modifications from all of the relevant articles.RESULTS:Out of 435 search results,178 were selected for data extraction.The ISGPS definition was used in 80% of the studies published since 2010 and the average rates of DGE and clinically relevant DGE were 27.7%(range:0-100%;median:18.7%) and 14.3%(range:1.8%-58.2%;median:13.6%),respectively.Pylorus preservation or retrocolic reconstruction were not associated with increased DGE rates.Although pyloric dilatation,Braun’s entero-enterostomy and Billroth Ⅱ reconstruction were associated with significantly lower DGE rates,pyloric ring resection appears to be most promising with favorable results in 7 out of 10 studies.CONCLUSIONS:ISGPS definition of DGE has been used in majority of studies published after 2010.Clinically relevant DGE rates remain high at 14.3% despite a number of proposed surgical modifications.Pyloric ring resection seems to offer the most promising solution to reduce the occurrence of DGE.

Impaired immune reaction and increased lactate and C-reactive protein for early prediction of severe morbidity and pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy

Background: Prediction of complications after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) remains of interest. Blood parameters and biomarkers during rst and second postoperative days (POD1, POD2) may be early indi- cators of complications. Methods: This case-control study included 50 patients. Baseline, POD1 and POD2 values of leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, platelets, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin and arterial lactate were compared between individuals presenting Clavien ≥ III morbidity, pancreatic stula (PF) or clinically relevant PF (CRPF) and those without these morbidities. Common variables reaching signi cance were further analyzed in order to calculate a predictive score. Results: Severe morbidity, PF and CRPF rates were 28.0%, 26.0% and 14.0%, respectively. Patients with severe morbidity had lower leukocytes on POD2 (P=0.04). Patients with PF presented higher CRP on POD2 (P=0.001), higher lactate on POD1 (P=0.007) and POD2 (P=0.008), and lower lymphocytes on POD1 (P=0.007) and POD2 (P=0.008). Patients with CRPF had lower leukocytes and neutrophils on POD1 (P =0.048, P =0.038), lower lymphocytes on POD1 (P =0.001) and POD2 (P =0.003), and higher CRP on POD2 (P =0.001). Baseline parameters and procalcitonin obtained no statistical associations. Score was de ned according to lymphocytes on POD1 < 650/μL and CRP on POD2 ≥ 250 mg/L allocating patients in 3 risk categories. PF and CRPF rates were statistically higher as risk category increased (P<0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curves and Hosmer Lemeshow tests showed a good accuracy. Conclusions: Impaired immunological reaction during early postoperative period (lower leukocytes and, particularly, lymphocytes) in response to surgical aggression would favor complications after PD. Likewise, acidosis (higher arterial lactate) could behave as risk factor of PF. An elevated CRP on POD2 is also an early biomarker of PF. Our novel score based on postoperative lymphocyte count and CRP seems reliable for early prediction of PF.

Effect of Blumgart anastomosis in reducing the incidence rate of pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND Pancreatic fistula is one of the most serious complications after pancreatoduodenectomy for treating any lesions at the pancreatic head. For years, surgeons have tried various methods to reduce its incidence. AIM To investigate and emphasize the clinical outcomes of Blumgart anastomosis compared with traditional anastomosis in reducing postoperative pancreatic fistula. METHODS In this observational study, a retrospective analysis of 291 patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy, including Blumgart anastomosis (201 patients) and traditional embedded pancreaticojejunostomy (90 patients), was performed in our hospital. The preoperative and perioperative courses and longterm follow-up status were analyzed to compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two methods. Moreover, 291 patients were then separated by the severity of postoperative pancreatic fistula, and two methods of pancreaticojejunostomy were compared to detect the features of different anastomosis. Six experienced surgeons were involved and all of them were proficient in both surgical techniques.RESULTS The characteristics of the patients in the two groups showed no significant differences, nor the preoperative information and pathological diagnoses. The operative time was significantly shorter in the Blumgart group (343.5 ± 23.0 vs 450.0 ± 40.1 min, P = 0.028), as well as the duration of pancreaticojejunostomy drainage tube placement and postoperative hospital stay (12.7 ± 0.9 d vs 17.4 ± 1.8 d, P = 0.031;and 21.9 ± 1.3 d vs 28.9 ± 1.3 d, P = 0.020, respectively). The overall complications after surgery were much less in the Blumgart group than in the embedded group (11.9% vs 26.7%, P = 0.002). Patients who underwent Blumgart anastomosis would suffer less from severe pancreatic fistula (71.9% vs 50.0%, P = 0.006), and this pancreaticojejunostomy procedure did not have worse influences on long-term complications and life quality. Thus, Blumgart anastomosis is a feasible pancreaticojejunostomy procedure in pancreatoduodenectomy surgery. It is safe in causing less postoperative complications, especially pancreatic fistula, and thus shortens the hospitalization duration. CONCLUSION Surgical method should be a key factor in reducing pancreatic fistula, and Blumgart anastomosis needs further promotion.

One hundred and seventy-eight consecutive pancreatoduodenectomies without mortality:role of the multidisciplinary approach

BACKGROUND:Pancreatoduodenectomy offers the only chance of cure for patients with periampullary cancers.This,however,is a major undertaking in most patients and is associated with a significant morbidity and mortality.A multidisciplinary approach to the workup and follow-up of patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy was initiated at our institution to improve the diagnosis,resection rate,mortality and morbidity.We undertook the study to assess the effect of this approach on diagnosis,resection rates and short-term outcomes such as morbidity and mortality.METHODS:A prospective database of patients presenting with periampullary cancers to a single surgeon between April 2004 and April 2010 was reviewed.All cases were discussed at a multidisciplinary meeting comprising surgeons,gastroenterologists,radiologists,oncologists,radiation oncologists,pathologists and nursing staff.A standardized investigation and management algorithm was followed.Complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification.RESULTS:A total of 295 patients with a periampullary lesion were discussed and 178 underwent pancreatoduodenectomy (resection rate 60%).Sixty-one patients (34%) required either a vascular or an additional organ resection.Eighty-nine patients experienced complications,of which the commonest was blood transfusion (12%).Thirty-four patients (19%) had major complications,i.e.grade 3 or above.There was no in-hospital,30-day or 60-day mortality.CONCLUSIONS:Pancreatoduodenectomy can safely be performed in high-volume centers with very low mortality.The surgeon’s role should be careful patient selection,intensive preoperative investigations,use of a team approach,and an unbiased discussion at a multidisciplinary meeting to optimize the outcome in these patients.

Hepatopancreatoduodenectomy for advanced hepatobiliary malignancies: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND: Hepatopancreatoduodenectomy is a complicated and challenging procedure but necessary for curative resection for advanced hepatobiliary malignancies. This retrospective study was to examine the safety and survival outcomes of hepatopancreatoduodenectomy in our center. METHODS: Prospectively collected data of 12 patients who underwent hepatopancreatoduodenectomy for advanced hepatobiliary malignancies in our hospital from January 1998 to December 2014 were analyzed. The primary endpoints are treatment-related morbidity and mortality and the secondary endpoints are overall survival and disease-free survival. RESULTS: Curative resection was achieved in 11 (91.7%) patients. Complications developed in 10 (83.3%) patients. Three hospital deaths resulted from multiorgan failure secondary to postoperative pancreatic fistula or hepaticojejunostomy leakage. Six of the nine remaining patients had disease recurrence. The nine patients had a median survival of 39.8 (5.3-151.8) months. The 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival rates were 66.7%, 55.6% and 27.8%, respectively. The corresponding disease-free survival rates were 55.6%, 44.4% and 29.6%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Morbidity and mortality after hepatopancreatoduodenectomy were significant. With RO resection, the 5-year overall survival and disease-free survival rates were 27.8% and 29.6%, respectively.

Reconstruction after pancreatoduodenectomy:Pancreatojejunostomy vs pancreatogastrostomy

Pancreatic surgeons try to find the best technique for reconstruction after pancreatoduodenectomy(PD) in order to decrease postoperative complications,mainly pancreatic fistulas(PF).In this work,we compare the two most frequent techniques of reconstruction after PD,pancreatojejunostomy(PJ) and pancreatogastrostomy(PG),in order to determine which of the two is better.A systematic review of the literature was performed,including major meta-analysis articles,clinical randomized trials,systematic reviews,and retrospective studies.A total of 64 articles were finally included.PJ and PG are usually responsible for most of the postoperative morbidity,mainly due to the onset of PF,being considered a major trigger of life-threatening complications such as intra-abdominal abscess and hemorrhagia.The included systematic reviews reported a significant difference only in the incidence of intraabdominal collections favouring PG.PF,delayed gastric emptying and mortality were not different.Although there was heterogeneity between these studies,all were conducted in specialized centers by highly experienced surgeons,and the surgical care was likely to be similar for all the studies.The disadvantages of PG include an increased incidence of delayed gastric emptying and of main pancreatic duct obstruction due to overgrowth by the gastric mucosa.Exocrine function appears to be worse after PG than after PJ,resulting in severe atrophic changes in the remnant pancreas.Depending on the type of PJ or PG used,the PF rate and other complications can also be different.The best method to deal with the pancreatic stump after PD remains questionable.The choice of method of pancreatic anastomosis could be based on individual experience and on the surgeon's preference and adherence to basic principles such as good exposure and visualization.In conclusion,up to now none of the techniques can be considered superior or be recommended as standard for reconstruction after PD.