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With the continuous advancement of robot-assisted surgical system and the continuous accumulation of clinical experience of surgeons, robot-assisted surgical systems are becoming more and more widely used in the field of pancreatic surgery. Several studies have suggested that robot-assisted pancreatic surgery has significant advantages over traditional pancreatic surgery. The " International consensus guidelines on robotic pancreatic surgery in 2023 " provides more standardized guidance on the applicability and safety of robotic-assisted pancreatic surgery, and discusses in detail the indications, safety, learning curve, and related issues of robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy, distal pancreatectomy,and mid pancreatectomy. In addition, the application value of robot-assisted surgical systems in special patients was discussed, as well as the new technology of robot-assisted pancreaticointestinal anastomosis and the new concept of pancreatic duct repair surgery. This article interprets the guidelines based on the recommendations of the guidelines and the practical experience of the authors' team in the field of robotic-assisted pancreatic surgery.

Background: Videos on Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) may be watched by surgeons learning RPD. This study sought to appraise the educational quality of RPD videos on YouTube., Methods: One-hundred videos showing RPD or 'Robotic Whipple' were assessed using validated scales (LAP-VEGaS & Consensus Statement Score (CSS)). The association between the scores and the video characteristics (e.g. order of appearance, provider type etc) was assessed. The minimum number of videos required to cumulatively cover the entire LAP-VEGaS and CSS was also noted., Results: The videos were of variable quality; median LAP-VEGaS = 0.67 (0.17-0.94), median CSS = 0.45 (0.29-0.53). There was no association between the educational quality of the videos and their order of appearance, view counts, provider type, length or country of origin. Videos lacked information such as patient consent (100%), potential pitfalls (97%) or surgeon credentials (84%). The first 29 videos cumulatively met all the criteria of CSS and LAP-VEGaS scores except for reporting consent., Conclusion: YouTube videos on RPD are of variable quality, without any recognised predictors of quality, and miss important safety information. An impractical number of videos need to be watched to cumulatively fulfil educational criteria. There is a need for high-quality, peer-reviewed videos that adhere to educational principles., (Copyright © 2024 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To analyze the association of a surgeon's experience with postoperative outcomes of pancreatoduodenectomies (PDs) when stratified by Fistula Risk Score (FRS)., Background: Centralization is now well-established for pancreatic surgery. Nevertheless, the benefits of individual surgeon's experience in high-volume settings remain undefined., Methods: Pancreatoduodenectomies performed by 82 surgeons across 18 international specialty institutions (median: 140 PD/year) were analyzed. Surgeon cumulative PD volume was linked with postoperative outcomes through multivariable models, adjusted for patient/operative characteristics and the FRS. Then, surgeon experience was also stratified by the 10, previously defined, most clinically impactful scenarios for clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) development., Results: Of 8189 PDs, 18.7% suffered severe complications (Accordion≥3), 4.8% were reoperated upon and 2.2% expired. Although the most experienced surgeons (top-quartile; >525 career PDs) more often operated on riskier cases, their experience was significantly associated with declines in CR-POPF ( P <0.001), severe complications ( P =0.008), reoperations ( P <0.001), and length of stay (LOS) ( P <0.001)-accentuated even more in the most impactful FRS scenarios (2830 patients). Risk-adjusted models indicate male sex, increasing age, ASA class, and FRS, but not surgeon experience, as being associated with severe complications, failure-to-rescue, and mortality. Instead, upper-echelon experience demonstrates significant reductions in CR-POPF (OR 0.66), reoperations (OR 0.64), and LOS (OR 0.65) in moderate-to-high fistula risk circumstances (FRS≥3, 68% of cases)., Conclusions: At specialty institutions, major morbidity, mortality, and failure-to-rescue are primarily associated with baseline patient characteristics, while cumulative surgical experience impacts pancreatic fistula occurrence and its attendant effects for most higher-risk pancreatoduodenectomies. These data also suggest an extended proficiency curve exists for this operation., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Clinical auditing is a powerful tool to evaluate and improve healthcare. Deviations from the expected quality of care are identified by benchmarking the results of individual hospitals using national averages. This study aimed to evaluate the use of quality indicators for benchmarking hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgery and when outlier hospitals could be identified., Methods: A population-based study used data from two nationwide Dutch HPB audits (DHBA and DPCA) from 2014 to 2021. Sample size calculations determined the threshold (in percentage points) to identify centres as statistical outliers, based on current volume requirements (annual minimum of 20 resections) on a two-year period (2020-2021), covering mortality rate, failure to rescue (FTR), major morbidity rate and textbook/ideal outcome (TO) for minor liver resection (LR), major LR, pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP)., Results: In total, 10 963 and 7365 patients who underwent liver and pancreatic resection respectively were included. Benchmark and corresponding range of mortality rates were 0.6% (0 -3.2%) and 3.3% (0-16.7%) for minor and major LR, and 2.7% (0-7.0%) and 0.6% (0-4.2%) for PD and DP respectively. FTR rates were 5.4% (0-33.3%), 14.2% (0-100%), 7.5% (1.6%-28.5%) and 3.1% (0-14.9%). For major morbidity rate, corresponding rates were 9.8% (0-20.5%), 28.1% (0-47.1%), 36% (15.8%-58.3%) and 22.3% (5.2%-46.1%). For TO, corresponding rates were 73.6% (61.3%-94.4%), 54.1% (35.3-100), 46.8% (25.3%-59.4%) and 63.3% (30.7%-84.6%). Mortality rate thresholds indicating a significant outlier were 8.6% and 15.4% for minor and major LR and 14.2% and 8.6% for PD and DP. For FTR, these thresholds were 17.9%, 31.6%, 22.9% and 15.0%. For major morbidity rate, these thresholds were 26.1%, 49.7%, 57.9% and 52.9% respectively. For TO, lower thresholds were 52.5%, 32.5%, 25.8% and 41.4% respectively. Higher hospital volumes decrease thresholds to detect outliers., Conclusion: Current event rates and minimum volume requirements per hospital are too low to detect any meaningful between hospital differences in mortality rate and FTR. Major morbidity rate and TO are better candidates to use for benchmarking., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of BJS Foundation Ltd.)

Background: More than 700 hospitals participate in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, but most pancreatectomies are performed in 165 centers participating in the pancreas procedure-targeted registry. We hypothesized that these hospitals ("targeted hospitals") might provide more specialized care than those not participating ("standard hospitals")., Methods: The 2014 to 2019 pancreas-targeted and standard American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry were reviewed regarding patient demographics, comorbidities, and perioperative outcomes using standard univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Primary outcomes included 30-day mortality and serious morbidity., Results: The registry included 30,357 pancreatoduodenectomies (80% in targeted hospitals) and 14,800 distal pancreatectomies (76% in targeted hospitals). Preoperative and intraoperative characteristics of patients treated at targeted versus standard hospitals were comparable. On multivariable analysis, pancreatoduodenectomies performed at targeted hospitals were associated with a 39% decrease in 30-day mortality (odds ratio, 0.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.50-0.75), 17% decrease in serious morbidity (odds ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval, 0.77-0.89), and 41% decrease in failure-to-rescue (odds ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.47-0.74). These differences did not apply to distal pancreatectomies. Participation in the targeted registry was associated with higher rates of optimal surgery for both pancreatoduodenectomy (odds ratio, 1.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.25-1.41) and distal pancreatectomy (odds ratio, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.30)., Conclusion: Mortality and failure-to-rescue rates after pancreatoduodenectomy in targeted hospitals were nearly half of rates in standard American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program hospitals. Further research should delineate factors underlying this effect and highlight opportunities for improvement., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: We aimed to describe our experience and the learning curve of 450 cases of robot-assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) and optimize the surgical process so that our findings can be useful for surgeons starting to perform RPD., Summary Background Data: Robotic surgical systems were first introduced 20 years ago. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a challenging surgery because of its technical difficulty. RPD may overcome some of these difficulties., Methods: The medical records of 450 patients who underwent RPD between May 2010 and December 2018 at the Shanghai Ruijin Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Operative times and estimated blood loss (EBL) were analyzed and the learning curve was determined. A cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis was used to identify the inflexion points. Other postoperative outcomes, postoperative complications, and long-term follow-up were also analyzed., Results: Operative time improved graduallyovertimefrom405.4 ± 112.9 minutes (case 1-50) to 273.6 ± 70 minutes (case 301-350) (P < 0.001). EBL improved from 410 ± 563.5 mL (case 1-50) to 149.0 ± 103.3 mL (case 351-400) (P< 0.001). According to the CUSUM curve, there were 3 phases in the RPD learning curve. The inflexion points were around cases 100 and 250. The incidence of pancreatic leak in the last 350 cases was significantly lower than that in the first 100 cases (30.0% vs 15.1%, P = 0.003)., Conclusions: RPD is safe and feasible for selected patients. Operative and oncologic outcomes were much improved after experience of 250 cases. Our optimization of the surgical process may have also contributed to this. Future prospective and randomized studies are needed to confirm our results., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: The ACS NSQIP Surgical Risk Calculator (SRC) assesses risk to support goal-concordant care. While it accurately predicts US outcomes, its performance internationally is unknown. This study evaluates SRC accuracy in predicting mortality following low anterior resection (LAR) and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) in NSQIP patients and accuracy retention when applied to native Japanese patients (National Clinical Database, NCD)., Methods: NSQIP (41,260 LAR; 15,114 PD) and NCD cases (61,220 LAR; 27,901 PD) from 2015 to 2017 were processed through the SRC mortality model. Country-specific calibration and discrimination were assessed with and without an intercept correction applied to the Japanese data., Results: The SRC exhibited acceptable calibration for LAR and PD when applied to NSQIP data but miscalibration for NCD data. A simple correction to the model intercept, motivated by lower mortality rates in the Japanese data, successfully remediated the miscalibration., Conclusions: The SRC may inaccurately predict surgical risk when applied to the native Japanese population. An intercept correction method is suggested when miscalibration is encountered; it is simple to implement and may permit effective international use of the SRC., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aim: The aim of the current study was to investigate whether the artery-first approach (AFA) improved surgical outcomes of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) at our non-high-volume center., Patients and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data on 121 consecutive patients who underwent PD between January 2009 and December 2018. The perioperative data of 49 patients who underwent conventional PD (conventional group) and 72 patients who underwent PD via artery-first approach were analyzed and compared to assess the effectiveness of the AFA., Results: Although no significant difference was observed between the two groups overall, in those with pancreatic cancer, the duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss and transfusion rate in the AFA group (n=33) were significantly lower than those for the conventional group (n=11) (p=0.011, p=0.021 and p=0.038 respectively)., Conclusion: AFA can be used to reduce the operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and transfusion rate in patients with pancreatic cancer., (Copyright © 2021 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.)

Background: Radical pancreaticoduodenectomy is the only possible cure for pancreatic head adenocarcinoma, and although several RCT studies have suggested the extent of lymph node dissection, this issue remains controversial. This article wanted to evaluate the survival benefit of different lymph node dissection extent for radical surgical treatment of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma., Methods: A total of 240 patients were assessed for eligibility in the study, 212 of whom were randomly divided into standard lymphadenectomy group (SG) or extended lymphadenectomy group (EG), there were 97 patients in SG and 95 patients in EG receiving the radical pancreaticoduodenectomy., Result: The demography, histopathology and clinical characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. The 2-year overall survival rate in the SG was higher than the EG (39.5% vs 25.3%; P = .034). The 2-year overall survival rate in the SG who received postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was higher than the EG (60.7% vs 37.1%; P = .021). There was no significant difference in the overall incidence of complications between the 2 groups (P = .502). The overall recurrence rate in the SG and EG (70.7% vs 77.5%; P = .349), and the patterns of recurrence between 2 groups were no significant differences., Conclusion: In multimodality therapy system, the efficacy of chemotherapy should be based on the appropriate lymphadenectomy extent, and the standard extent of lymphadenectomy is optimal for resectable pancreatic head adenocarcinoma. The postoperative slowing of peripheral blood lymphocyte recovery might be 1 of the reasons why extended lymphadenectomy did not result in survival benefits., Clinical Trial Registration: This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02928081) in October 7, 2016. https://clinicaltrials.gov/., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Background: Annual hospital volume of pancreatoduodenectomies could influence postoperative outcomes. The aim of this study is to establish with a non-arbitrary method the minimum threshold of yearly performed pancreatoduodenectomies in order to improve several postoperative quality outcomes., Method: Prospective follow-up of patients submitted to pancreatoduodenectomy in participating hospitals during 1 year. The influence of hospital volume on quality outcomes was analyzed by univariable and multivariable models. The minimum threshold of yearly performed pancreatoduodenectomies to improve outcomes was established by Akaike's information criteria., Results: Data from 877 patients operated in 74 hospitals were analyzed. Of 12 quality outcomes, 9 were influenced by hospital pancreatoduodenectomy volume on multivariable analysis. To decrease the risk of complications and the risk of retrieving an insufficient number of lymph nodes at least 31 pancreatoduodenectomies per year should be performed. To decrease the risk of prolonged length of stay, postoperative death, and affected surgical margins, at least 37, 6, and 14 pancreatoduodenectomies per year should be performed, respectively., Conclusion: Several postoperative quality outcomes are influenced by the number of yearly performed pancreatoduodenectomies and could be improved by establishing a minimum threshold of procedures. Number of procedures needed to improve quality outcomes has been established by a non-arbitrary method., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Factors for overall survival after pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) seem to be nodal status, chemotherapy administration, UICC staging, and resection margin. However, there is no consensus on the definition for tumor free resection margin. Therefore, univariate OS as well as multivariate long-term survival using cancer center data was analyzed with regards to two different resection margin definitions. Ninety-five patients met inclusion criteria (pancreatic head PDAC, R0/R1, no 30 days mortality). OS was analyzed in univariate analysis with respect to R-status, CRM (circumferential resection margin; positive: ≤1mm; negative: >1mm), nodal status, and chemotherapy administration. Long-term survival >36 months was modelled using multivariate logistic regression instead of Cox regression because the distribution function of the dependent data violated the requirements for the application of this test. Significant differences in OS were found regarding the R status (Median OS and 95%CI for R0: 29.8 months, 22.3-37.4; R1: 15.9 months, 9.2-22.7; p = 0.005), nodal status (pN0 = 34.7, 10.4-59.0; pN1 = 17.1, 11.5-22.8; p = 0.003), and chemotherapy (with CTx: 26.7, 20.4-33.0; without CTx: 9.7, 5.2-14.1; p < .001). OS according to CRM status differed on a clinically relevant level by about 12 months (CRM positive: 17.2 months, 11.5-23.0; CRM negative: 29.8 months, 18.6-41.1; p = 0.126). A multivariate model containing chemotherapy, nodal status, and CRM explained long-term survival (p = 0.008; correct prediction >70%). Chemotherapy, nodal status and resection margin according to UICC R status are univariate factors for OS after PDAC. In contrast, long-term survival seems to depend on wider resection margins than those used in UICC R classification. Therefore, standardized histopathological reporting (including resection margin size) should be agreed upon., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Background: The mainstay of treatment for pancreatic cancer is surgical resection; however, positive surgical margins remain commonplace. We identified hospitals with higher than predicted rates of positive margins and isolated factors that caused this discordance., Methods: This is a retrospective review of patients with head of the pancreas adenocarcinoma in the National Cancer Database between 2004 and 2015. A nomogram was used to calculate the observed to expected positive margin rates (O/E) for facilities. If the O/E differed significantly ( P < .05), it was considered an outlier., Results: Among a total of 19 968 patients, 24.3% had positive margins. Among hospitals with lower than expected positive margin rates, 73.6% were academic or research programs, 17% were comprehensive community cancer programs, and none were community cancer programs ( P = .0002). Within the group with higher than expected positive margin rates, 47% were comprehensive community cancer programs and 38.6% were academic or research programs ( P = .0002). The mean hospital volume was higher in the low positive margin group (110.4 vs 48.8, P < .0001)., Conclusions: Facility type and hospital volume can predict improvement in the O/E ratio for margin positivity in pancreatic adenocarcinoma resection. Surgeons should consider referral to academic or research facilities with higher case volumes for improved surgical resection.

Background: Pancreato-duodenectomy (PD) is a technically challenging operation with significant morbidity and mortality. Over the period of time, Tata Memorial Centre has evolved into a high-volume centre for management of pancreatic cancer. Aim of this study is to report the short- and long-term outcomes of 1200 consecutive PDs performed at single tertiary cancer centre in India., Methods: 1200 PDs were performed from 1992 to 2017. Prospectively maintained database was used to retrospectively assess the short- and long-term outcomes., Results: Study cohort was divided into periods A and B (500 and 700 patients, respectively). Both groups were comparable for demographic variables. Overall morbidity and mortality in entire cohort were 31.2% and 3.9%, respectively. Period B documented significant reduction in post-operative mortality (5.4% vs 2.8%), post-pancreatectomy haemorrhage (5.8% vs 3%) and bile leaks (3.4% vs 1.3%). However, incidence of delayed gastric emptying and clinically relevant post-operative pancreatic fistula was higher in period B. With median follow-up of 25 months, 3-year overall survival and disease-free survival for patients with pancreatic cancer were 43.7% and 38.7%, respectively, and that for periampullary tumours were 65.9% and 59.4%, respectively. Period B also corresponded with dissemination of technical expertise across diverse regions of India with specialised training of 35 surgeons., Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the feasibility of delivering high-quality care in a dedicated high-volume centre even in a country with low incidence of pancreatic cancer with marked disparities in medical care and socio-economic conditions. Improved outcomes underscore the need to promote regionalisation via a dedicated training programme.

Background: The first enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) guidelines for pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) were developed in 2012. The study aimed to assess compliance and outcomes of an ERAS protocol for PD, to study correlation between compliance and outcomes, and to identify risk factors for complications., Methods: Retrospective cohort analysis is based on a prospective database, including all consecutive patients undergoing elective PD within an ERAS program in four centers: Lausanne University Hospital (Switzerland), Carolinas Medical Center (United States), Edouard Herriot Hospital (France), and University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (Germany). Patients' characteristics, postoperative outcome and ERAS compliance were assessed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess predictors of postoperative complications., Results: Between October 2012 and June 2017, 404 consecutive patients underwent PD. Median length of stay was 14 days with 11.3% readmission rate. Mean overall compliance was 62%, with pre-, intra- and postoperative compliance of 93%, 80% and 30%, respectively. Overall compliance ≥ 70% versus < 70% was significantly associated with a reduction in complications (p = 0.029) and length of stay (p < 0.001). Avoidance of postoperative nasogastric tube (OR = 0.31, p = 0.043), mobilization on day of surgery (OR = 0.28, p = 0.043), and mobilization more than 6 h on postoperative day 2 (OR = 0.45, p = 0.001) were independent predictors of reduced overall complications., Conclusions: Implementation of enhanced recovery for PD is challenging, especially in the postoperative period. Overall compliance with ERAS protocol ≥ 70% was associated with decreased complications and length of stay. Specific ERAS elements, such as avoidance of postoperative nasogastric tube and early mobilization, independently improved outcomes.

Objective: To explore the clinical efficacy of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) combined with vascular resection and reconstruction under robotic surgery system in the treatment of borderline resectable pancreatic cancer., Methods: The clinical data of 17 patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer who underwent PD combined with vascular resection and reconstruction (see the Video 1 in Supplemental Contents, http://ykxb.scu.edu.cn/article/doi/10.12182/20200760202) under robotic surgery system between August 2011 and September 2018 was analyzed retrospectively., Results: There were 4 cases required conversion because of serious tumor invasion and soft pancreas texture, the other 13 cases were successfully completed. 16 cases (94%) achieved margin-negative resection (R0 resection), 14 cases combined with vein resection, and 3 cases combined with arterial resection. The mean operation time was (401±170) min, the mean blood loss was (647±345) mL, the mean postoperative length of hospital stay was (20±8) d. There was no perioperative death. Postoperative pathology findings and follow-up outcomes were as follows: 1 patient was diagnosed as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) and 1 patient was diagnosed as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNET) (Grade 1), 8 patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). 1 patient with pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma (PNEC) died because of tumor recurrence and metastasis during the follow-up period, the median (Min-Max) survival time was 12 (8-26) months. 5 patients with PDAC and 1 patient with malignant IPMN were currently in the follow-up period., Conclusion: It is safe and feasible to perform RPD with vascular resection and reconstruction. The patient's condition should be fully evaluated before surgery to select the most appropriate treatment., (Copyright© by Editorial Board of Journal of Sichuan University (Medical Science Edition).)

Background: RPD (Robotic pancreatoduodenectomy) was first performed by P. C. Giulianotti in 2001 (Arch Surg 138(7):777-784, 2003). Since then, the complexity and lack of technique standardization has slowed down its widespread utilization. RPD has been increasingly adopted worldwide and in few centres is the preferred apporached approach by certain surgeons. Some large retrospective series are available and data seem to indicate that RPD is safe/feasible, and a valid alternative to the classic open Whipple. Our group has recently described a standardized 17 steps approach to RPD (Giulianotti et al. Surg Endosc 32(10): 4329-4336, 2018). Herin, we present an educational step-by-step surgical video with short technical/operative description to visually exemplify the RPD 17 steps technique., Methods: The current project has been approved by our local Institutional Review Board (IRB). We edited a step-by-step video guidance of our RPD standardized technique. The data/video images were collected from a retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database (IRB approved). The narration and the images describe hands-on operative "tips and tricks" to facilitate the learning/teaching/evaluation process., Results: Each of the 17 surgical steps is visually represented and explained to help the in-depth understanding of the relevant surgical anatomy and the specific operative technique., Conclusions: Educational videos descriptions like the one herein presented are a valid learning/teaching tool to implement standardized surgical approaches. Standardization is a crucial component of the learning curve. This approach can create more objective and reproducible data which might be more reliably assessed/compared across institutions and by different surgeons. Promising results are arising from several centers about RPD. However, RPD as gold standard-approach is still a matter of debate. Randomized-controlled studies (RCT) are required to better validate the precise role of RPD.

Hepatic artery variations increase the difficulty of laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD). The safety and efficacy of LPD in the presence of aberrant hepatic arteries (AHA) must be further verified.Patients with normal and variant hepatic arteries who underwent LPD and preoperative arterial angiography were retrospectively analyzed. Variation type, intraoperative management, and clinical treatment outcomes were compared.There were 54 cases (24.8%) of AHA. The most common hepatic artery variation was accessory right hepatic artery (RHA) from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA, n = 12, 5.5%), followed by replaced RHA from the SMA (n = 10, 4.6%), accessory left hepatic artery from the SMA (n = 10, 4.6%), and replaced common hepatic artery from the SMA (n = 6, 2.8%). Each type of arterial variation was successfully preserved in all cases, and there were no significant effects on the evaluated surgical indices, conversion rate, incidence of postoperative complications, or follow-up results.Our findings indicated that preservation of AHAs during total LPD is feasible. There were no significant effects on surgical indices, incidence of postoperative complications, or follow-up outcomes.The influence of AHA on the safety and efficacy of LPD must be further verified. Patients with normal and variant hepatic arteries who underwent LPD and preoperative arterial angiography were retrospectively analyzed. There were 54 cases (24.8%) of AHA. There were no significant effects of AHAs on surgical indices, incidence of postoperative complications, or follow-up outcomes.

Background: Composite outcomes may more accurately reflect patient and provider expectations around optimal care. We sought to determine the impact of achieving a so-called "textbook oncologic outcome" (TOO) among patients undergoing resection of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC)., Methods: Patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for PDAC between 2006 and 2016 were identified in the National Cancer Database (NCDB). TOO was defined by: margin negative resection, compliant lymph node evaluation, no prolonged length-of-stay, no 30-day readmission/mortality, and receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy. Factors associated with TOO and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using multivariable logistic and Cox regression models, respectively., Results: Among 18 608 patients who underwent PD at 782 hospitals, many patients successfully achieved certain TOO factors such as R0 margin (77.9%) and no 30-day mortality (96.9%), while other TOO criteria such as receipt of adjuvant therapy (48.2%) were achieved less frequently. Overall, only 3124 (16.8%) patients achieved a TOO. Factors associated with lower odds of TOO included: older age, Black race, Medicaid insurance, Community facility, and low PD facility (<20 PD/y) (all P < .05). Achievement of a TOO was associated with lower risk of mortality (HR 0.74; 95% CI, 0.70-0.77)., Conclusions: While TOO was associated with improved long-term survival, TOO was only achieved in 16.8% of patients undergoing PD., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms are common lesions with the potential of harbouring/developing a pancreatic cancer. An accurate evaluation of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms with high-resolution imaging techniques and endoscopic ultrasound is mandatory in order to identify patients worthy either of surgical treatment or surveillance. In this review, the diagnosis and management of patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms are discussed with a specific focus on current guidelines. Areas of uncertainty are also discussed, as there are controversies related to the optimal indications for surgery, surveillance protocols and surveillance discontinuation.

Background and Aims: The effect of operation volume on the outcomes of pancreatic surgery has been a subject of research since the 1990s. In several countries around the world, this has led to the centralization of pancreatic surgery. However, controversy persists as to the benefits of centralization and what the optimal operation volume for pancreatic surgery actually is. This review summarizes the data on the effect of centralization on mortality, complications, hospital facilities used, and costs regarding pancreatic surgery., Materials and Methods: A systematic librarian-assisted search was performed in PubMed covering the years from August 1999 to August 2019. All studies comparing results of open pancreatic resections from high- and low-volume centers were included. In total 44, published articles were analyzed., Results: Studies used a variety of different criteria for high-volume and low-volume centers, which hampers the evaluating of the effect of operation volume. However, mortality in high-volume centers is consistently reported to be lower than in low-volume centers. In addition, failure to rescue critically ill patients is more common in low-volume centers. Cost-effectiveness has also been evaluated in the literature. Length of hospital stay in particular has been reported to be shorter in high-volume centers than in low-volume centers., Conclusion: The effect of centralization on the outcomes of pancreatic surgery has been under active research and the beneficial effect of it is associated especially with better short-term prognosis after surgery.

Introduction: There has been a rapid development in minimally invasive pancreas surgery in recent years. The most recent innovation is robotic pancreatoduodenectomy. Several studies have suggested benefits as compared to the open or laparoscopic approach. This review provides an overview of studies concerning patient selection, volume criteria, and training programs for robotic pancreatoduodenectomy and identified knowledge gaps regarding barriers for safe implementation of robotic pancreatoduodenectomy., Materials and Methods: A Pubmed search was conducted concerning patient selection, volume criteria, and training programs in robotic pancreatoduodenectomy., Results: A total of 20 studies were included. No contraindications were found in patient selection for robotic pancreatoduodenectomy. The consensus and the Miami guidelines advice is a minimum annual volume of 20 robotic pancreatoduodenectomy procedures per center, per year. One training program was identified which describes superior outcomes after the training program and shortening of the learning curve in robotic pancreatoduodenectomy., Conclusion: Robotic pancreatoduodenectomy is safe and feasable for all indications when performed by specifically trained surgeons working in centers who can maintain a minimum volume of 20 robotic pancreatoduodenectomy procedures per year. Large proficiency-based training program for robotic pancreatoduodenectomy seem essential to facilitate a safe implementation and future research on robotic pancreatoduodenectomy.

Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a challenging surgical intervention that remains the cornerstone in the treatment of localized peri‑ampullary pathologies. The concept of treatment standardization has been well-established in many high-volume centers in the world. Here, we present our experience in pancreaticoduodenectomy from 1994 to 2015., Methods: We performed a retrospective review of the medical charts of patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy at our institution. Data was entered to SPSS statistical software and analyzed. The Mann-Whitney U and Fisher's exact tests were used to report statistical differences between groups., Results: Of the 370 patients who underwent pacreaticoduodenectomy, 300 were analyzed. The 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year survival rates were 85%, 35%, 15%, and 7%, respectively with a 30-day mortality rate of 5.0% (15 patients). The median age of the patients was 61 (13-84) years, with 193 (64.3%) males and 107 (35.7%) females. The median operative time was 300 (130-570) min. The median postoperative length of hospital stay was 12 (5-76) days. Thirty-two patients required re-laparotomies; 10 for pancreatic leak, 7 for biliary leak and 15 for control of bleeding. Seventy-five (25.0%) patients developed pancreatic fistulae. Delayed gastric emptying was present in 31 (10.3%) patients. A significant improvement in surgical outcome was observed in cases done after 2008 which indicates the important role of specialized team in surgical management., Conclusions: The number of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy has been increasing annually over the past twenty-two years in our institution with results comparable to published series from high-volume centers. Through standardization of surgical techniques and perioperative management carried out by a specialist team, our results continue to improve despite the increasing complexity of cases referred to our unit., (Copyright © 2019 First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine in China. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To examine the effect of standardized lymphectomy and sampling of resected lymph nodes (LN) on TNM staging of resectable pancreatic head cancer. Methods: Consecutive patients with resectable pancreatic head cancer who received standard pancreatoduodenctomy at Department of General Surgery in Beijing Hospital from December 2017 to November 2018 were recruited as study group. After operation, the surgeon sampled lymph nodes from the fresh specimen following the Japanese Gastric Cancer Guidelines.Thirty-three cases were recruited in the study group and the mean age was (59.8±15.2) years.Pathologic reports from December 2015 to November 2016 were taken as control group, containing 29 cases with age of (57.0±13.0) years. Number of lymph nodes, standard-reaching ratio and positive nodes ratio were compared between two groups. According to the seventh edition and eighth edition of TNM staging, the changes of N staging and TNM staging were analysed. The quantitative data conforming to normal distribution were tested by independent sample t test, the quantitative data not conforming to normal distribution were tested by rank sum test, and the enumeration data were analysed by χ(2) test. Results: The basal data of the two groups were comparable (all P> 0.05) . The number of lymph nodes sampled in the study group was 23.27±8.87, significantly more than in control group (12.86±5.90, t= 0.653, P= 0.000) .Ratio of cases with more than 15 nodes was 81.8% (27/33) in the study group and 34.5% (10/29) in the control group with statistical significance (χ(2)=14.373, P= 0.000) . In the study group, the positive lymph node ratios of No. 17a+17b, 14a+14b, 8a+8p LN were 36.4% (12/33) , 30.3% (10/33) and 9.1% (3/33) respectively. The positive lymph node ratio in No.14a+14b LN was higher than in No.8 LN (χ(2)=4.694, P= 0.030) . According to the change in N staging system in the AJCC eighth edition, 2 cases (6.1%, 2/33) changed from ⅠB to ⅡA, 7 cases (21.2%, 7/33) from ⅡA to ⅠB and 5 cases (15.2%, 5/33) changed from ⅡB to Ⅲ (25.0%, 5/20) . Conclusions: No.14 LN should be treated as the first station rather than second station because of the anatomic character and higher metastatic ratio. Standardised lymphectomy and sampling may increase the number of LN resected and improve the TNM staging of resectable pancreatic head cancer.

Background: Nationwide audits facilitate quality and outcome assessment of pancreatoduodenectomy. Differences may exist between countries but studies comparing nationwide outcomes of pancreatoduodenectomy based on audits are lacking. This study aimed to compare the German and Dutch audits for external data validation., Methods: Anonymized data from patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy between 2014 and 2016 were extracted from the German Society for General and Visceral Surgery StuDoQ|Pancreas and Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit, and compared using descriptive statistics. Univariable and multivariable risk analyses were undertaken., Results: Overall, 4495 patients were included, 2489 in Germany and 2006 in the Netherlands. Adenocarcinoma was a more frequent indication for pancreatoduodenectomy in the Netherlands. German patients had worse ASA fitness grades, but Dutch patients had more pulmonary co-morbidity. Dutch patients underwent more minimally invasive surgery and venous resections, but fewer multivisceral resections. No difference was found in rates of grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula, grade C postpancreatectomy haemorrhage and in-hospital mortality. There was more centralization in the Netherlands (1·3 versus 13·3 per cent of pancreatoduodenectomies in very low-volume centres; P < 0·001). In multivariable analysis, both hospital stay (difference 2·49 (95 per cent c.i. 1·18 to 3·80) days) and risk of reoperation (odds ratio (OR) 1·55, 95 per cent c.i. 1·22 to 1·97) were higher in the German audit, whereas risk of postoperative pneumonia (OR 0·57, 0·37 to 0·88) and readmission (OR 0·38, 0·30 to 0·49) were lower. Several baseline and surgical characteristics, including hospital volume, but not country, predicted mortality., Conclusion: This comparison of the German and Dutch audits showed variation in case mix, surgical technique and centralization for pancreatoduodenectomy, but no difference in mortality and pancreas-specific complications., (© 2019 BJS Society Ltd Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Assessment of optimal patient outcomes from health care delivery is critical for success amidst current reform. We developed a composite index of quality for pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and compared high and low performers nationwide., Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 17,220 patients undergoing elective PD between October 2010 and June 2014 using the Vizient database. A quality index score (QIS) was developed from five variables associated with optimal outcomes: postoperative complication rate, length of stay, 30-d readmission rate, mortality rate, and hospital volume. Value was defined as hospital-based QIS divided by mean hospital charges. High-value centers (top quintile) were compared to low-value centers (bottom quintile)., Results: The majority of high-value centers (79%) achieved top performer status in 1-2 of five quality categories though only 11% were low performer in at least one category. Conversely, 41% of low-value centers were top performers in at least one category, although rarely more than one (8%); 63% of low-value centers were low performers in two or more categories. There was no significant association between QIS and hospital charges (-570, 95% CI -1308 to 168, P = 0.13)., Conclusions: High-value centers infrequently provided high quality surgical care across all five metrics but instead excelled in a few quality metrics while avoiding low performance in any quality metric. Although low-value centers could achieve excellence in one quality metric, they were frequently low performers in two or more outcomes. Improvements in value of PD can be achieved by a consistent effort across all quality metrics rather than efforts at constraining financial expenditures of health care delivery., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Pancreatic surgery has undergone substantial changes during the last decades. Improved surgical techniques and perioperative care have contributed to improved outcomes and allow safe surgery with mortality rates below 5% in specialized centers today. In parallel, surgical indications and procedures have been continuously extended especially with regard to pancreatic cancer surgery including vascular resections and multivisceral approaches for advanced findings., Purpose: With the growing awareness of the need to report outcomes scientifically, it has become obvious that only standardized definitions allow a reasonable description and comparability with regard to indications, procedures, and especially complications. Consequently, a number of efforts have been undertaken to achieve this aim, including basic nomenclatures, preoperative definition of resectability, and specific outcome parameters., Conclusion: This review gives an overview on the development of international standardizations in pancreatic surgery and the current status and discusses their scientific importance and the most important current controversies in the context of the present literature as well as the ongoing future approaches in this field.

Background: Whether the portal/superior mesenteric vein (PV) should be resected during pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) based on preoperative CT or intraoperative findings is controversial., Methods: This was a retrospective study with data of patients who had undergone pancreatoduodenectomy for PDAC between 2002 and 2016 in a tertiary referral centre. Based on the extent of contact between the PV and tumour on CT, patients were categorized into: group 1, no contact; group 2, contact 180° or less; group 3, contact greater than 180°. Extent of pathological PV invasion (pPV) (no invasion, pv0; invasion to tunica adventitia, pv1; invasion to media, pv2; invasion to intima, pv3) was compared with patient survival. To assess the feasibility of performing PV resection (PVR) based on intraoperative findings, the prognosis of patients in groups 1 and 2 with pv0 and no PVR (PVR(-)pv0) was compared with that of patients who had PVR (PVR(+)pv0), selected using propensity score matching., Results: Groups 1, 2 and 3 comprised 230, 232 and 38 patients respectively, and PVR was performed in 10·9, 73·3 and 95 per cent of them ( P  < 0·001). Extent of pPV differed significantly ( P  < 0·001). The positive predictive value of radiological tumour contact with PV in predicting positive pPV was 42·6 per cent. In 64 patients with PVR(-)pv0 and 64 matched patients with PVR(+)pv0, the R0 resection rate (66 versus 73 per cent respectively; P  = 0·337) and survival (median 32·4 versus 32·1 months; P  = 0·780) were not significantly different., Conclusion: PVR is needed only when the tumour is in clear contact with the PV and cannot be detached during surgery.

Introduction: Pancreaticoduodenectomy is a complex surgical procedure associated with high morbidity and prolonged length of stay. Enhanced recovery after surgery principles have reduced complications rate and length of stay for multiple types of operations. We hypothesized that implementation of a standardized perioperative care pathway would facilitate safe discharge by five days after pancreaticoduodenectomy., Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy 18 months prior to and 18 months following implementation of a perioperative care pathway at a quaternary center performing high volume pancreatic surgery., Results: A total of 145 patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (mean age 63 ± 10 years, 52% female), 81 before and 64 following pathway implementation, and the groups were similar in terms of preoperative comorbidities. The percentage of patients discharged within 5 days of surgery increased from 36% to 64% following pathway implementation (p = 0.001), with no observed differences in post-operative serious adverse events (p = 0.34), pancreatic fistula grade B or C (p = 0.28 and p = 0.27 respectively), or delayed gastric emptying (p = 0.46). Multivariate regression analysis showed length of stay ≤5 days three times more likely after pathway implementation. Rates of readmission within 30 days (20% pre- vs. 22% post-pathway (p = 0.75)) and 90 days (27% pre- vs. 36% post-pathway (p = 0.27)) were unchanged after pathway implementation, and were no different between patients discharged before or after day 5 at both 30 days (19% ≤5 days vs. 23% ≥ 6 days (p = 0.68)) and 90 days (32% ≤5 days vs. 30% ≥ 6 days (p = 0.81))., Conclusions: Standardizing perioperative care via enhanced recovery protocols for patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy facilitates safe discharge by post-operative day five., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Background: Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) requires sufficient laparoscopic training for optimal outcomes. Our aim is to determine the learning curve and investigate the factors influencing surgical outcomes during the learning curve., Methods: We analyzed surgical results of 150 consecutive cases of LPD performed by three hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons during their 50 first cases. Learning curves were constructed by cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis. Preoperative factors influencing resection time and blood loss were investigated in the introductory and stable periods. RESULTS : The learning curve could be divided into three phases: initial (1-20 cases), plateau (21-30), and stable (31-50). Resection time with lymph node dissection was significantly longer during the introductory period (initial and plateau periods) (P < 0.01) but not the stable phase (P = 0.51). Multivariate analysis revealed that patients with pancreatitis had longer resection times and massive blood loss in both the introductory and stable periods (stable phase). High visceral fat area was also significantly related to massive blood loss in the introductory period (P = 0.04)., Conclusions: Hepatopancreatobiliary surgeons need more than 30 cases until LPD becomes stable. Lymph node dissection and patients with high visceral fat area and concomitant pancreatitis should be avoided during the introductory period of the learning curve., (© 2018 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background: Minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD) was introduced in the attempt to improve the outcomes of the open approach. Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) was first reported by Gagner and Pomp (Surg Endosc 8:408-410, 1994). Unfortunately, due to its complexity and technical demand, LPD never reached widespread popularity. Since it was first performed by P. C. Giulianotti in 2001, Robotic PD (RPD) has been gaining ground among surgeons. MIPD is included as a surgical option in the latest NCCN Guidelines. However, lack of surgical standardization, however, has limited the reproducibility of MIPD and made the acquisition of the technique by other surgeons difficult. We provide an accurate description of our standardized step-by-step RDP technique., Methods: We took advantage of our 15-year long experience and > 150 cases performed to provide a step-by-step guidance of our RPD standardized technique. The description includes practical "tips and tricks" to facilitate the learning curve and assist with the teaching/evaluation process., Results: 17 surgical steps were identified as key components of the RPD procedure. The steps reflect the subdivision of the RPD into several parts which help to understand a strategy that takes into accounts specific anatomical landmarks and the demands of the robotic platform., Conclusions: Standardization is a key element of the learning curve of RPD. It can potentially provide consistent, reproducible results that can be more easily evaluated. Despite promising results, full acceptance of RPD as the 'gold standard' is still work in progress. Randomized-controlled trials with the application of a standardized technique are necessary to better define the role of RPD.

Background: Improvements in surgical outcomes are predicated on recognizing effective practices with subsequent adaptation. It is unknown whether risk assessment for pancreatic fistula (clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula [CR-POPF]) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) translates to improved patient outcomes at the practice level., Study Design: A prospectively collected, single-surgeon career experience (2003 to 2018) of 455 consecutive pancreatectomies (303 PDs and 152 distal pancreatectomies) was examined. Analysis occurred during 4 eras of practice: learning curve for PD (n = 50); development of the Fistula Risk Score (n = 48); reactive, data-driven adjustments of anastomotic stent use (n = 94); and omission of prophylactic octreotide with adoption of selective drainage (n = 111). Observed to expected ratios of CR-POPF were calculated using a multi-institutional derivation set (5,379 PDs)., Results: After adjustment for increasing fistula risk across the 4 eras (p = 0.016), the risk-adjusted CR-POPF rate declined significantly (observed to expected ratio 1.42→1.28→1.01→0.30; p < 0.001). Literature-driven changes in fistula mitigation strategies likewise led to reductions in the overall complication burden (Postoperative Morbidity Index: 0.20→0.24→0.25→0.15; p = 0.015) and resource use (therapeutic antibiotics: p = 0.019; hospital readmission: p = 0.006; postoperative transfusion: p = 0.007). In contrast, the CR-POPF rate after distal pancreatectomy, for which no validated risk-adjustment process exists, did not vary (approximately 12%; p = 0.878)., Conclusions: Patient outcomes for PD can be optimized by risk-adjusted evaluation and deliberate modification of practice., (Copyright © 2018 American College of Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To analyze learning curve by using of immediate results of pancreatoduodenectomy at multi-field oncology institute., Material and Methods: For the period 2010-2016 at Abdominal Oncology Department of Herzen Moscow Oncology Research Institute 120 pancreatoduodenal resections were consistently performed. All patients were divided into two groups: the first 60 procedures (group A) and subsequent 60 operations (group B). Herewith, first 60 operations were performed within the first 4.5 years of study period, the next 60 operations - within remaining 2.5 years., Results: Learning curves showed significantly variable intraoperative blood loss (1100 ml and 725 ml), surgery time (589 min and 513 min) and postoperative hospital-stay (15 days and 13 days) in group A followed by gradual improvement of these values in group B. Incidence of negative resection margin (R0) was also significantly improved in the last 60 operations (70 and 92%, respectively)., Conclusion: Despite pancreatoduodenectomy is one of the most difficult surgical interventions in abdominal surgery learning curve will differ from one surgeon to another.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is associated with high postoperative morbidity. The management of postoperative complications is paramount for reducing the mortality rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of surgical and hospital experience on outcomes by comparing postoperative results in three different hospitals with increasing resources for supporting the same surgical team. Patients data and surgical outcome of 300 consecutive patients undergoing PD were collected prospectively in the department database and divided into three periods (A = 1990-2000, B = 2001-March 2007, C = April 2007-2015). Pancreatico-jejunostomy was the procedure of choice between 1995 and 2004, and pancreatico-gastrostomy was performed afterwards. In the periods A, B and C, a total of 78, 85 and 137 PD were performed, respectively, and the number of PDs per year increased from 5 to 25. Between the three periods, the death rate (10.4 vs. 6 vs. 1.6%, p = 0.01) and intraoperative RBC transfusion rate (84.9 vs. 42.4 vs. 6.5%, p = 0.01) decreased significantly, whereas the vascular resection rate increased significantly (1.2 vs. 7 vs. 14.5, p < 0.002). Morbidity and reoperation rates did not change significantly between the three periods as well as operative time and median length of stay. Infectious complications and sepsis represented the most frequent major complication. Massive bleeding associated with uncontrolled pancreatic leak represented the major cause of morbidity and reoperation in the three periods, however, the relative mortality rate decreased significantly with no deaths in the last period. PD remains a challenging procedure with high morbidity and mortality rate. A multidisciplinary pancreatic team represents the "safety net" of pancreatic surgeon because it improves the results beyond the surgeon skills and experience.

Objective: Measure the caseload of pancreatectomies that influences their short-term outcome, at a national level, and assess the applicability of a centralization policy., Background: There is agreement that pancreatectomies should be centralized. However, previous studies have failed to accurately define a "high-volume" center., Methods: French healthcare databases were screened to identify all adult patients who had elective pancreatectomies between 2007 and 2012. The patients' age, comorbidities, indication, and extent of surgery, and also the hospital administrative-type and location were retrieved. The annual-caseload of pancreatectomy was calculated for each hospital facility. The primary endpoint was 90-day mortality. Spline modeling was used to identify the different annual-caseload that influenced mortality. Logistic regressions were performed to assess if their influence was independent of confounders, and the accuracy of the model calculated., Results: Overall, 22,366 patients underwent a pancreatectomy and the mortality was 8.1%. Two cut-offs were identified (25 and 65 per year): compared with centers performing >65 resections per year, the adjusted OR of mortality was 1.865 (1.529-2.276) in centers performing ≤25 resections per year and 1.234 (1.031-1.478) in those performing 26 to 65 resections per year. The average number of facilities performing ≤25, 26 to 65, and >65 pancreatectomies per year was 456, 20, and 9, respectively. The percentage of patients operated in these facilities was 56.6%, 19.9%, and 23.3%, respectively.For pancreaticoduodenectomies (12,670 patients; mortality 9.2%), there were 2 cut-offs (16 and 40 pancreaticoduodenectomies per year), and both were independent predictors of mortality (adjusted OR of 1.979 and 1.333). For distal pancreatectomies (7085 patients; 6.2% mortality), there were 2 cut-offs (13 and 25 distal pancreatectomies per year), but neither was an independent predictor of outcome (area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of the model = 0.778)., Conclusions: Centralization of pancreatic surgery is theoretically justified, but currently unrealizable. As the incidence of pancreatic cancer increases, there is an urgent need to improve the training of surgeons and develop both intermediate and high-volume centers.

Background: Auditing is an important tool to identify practice variation and 'best practices'. The Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit is mandatory in all 18 Dutch centers for pancreatic surgery., Methods: Performance indicators and case-mix factors were identified by a PubMed search for randomized controlled trials (RCT's) and large series in pancreatic surgery. In addition, data dictionaries of two national audits, three institutional databases, and the Dutch national cancer registry were evaluated. Morbidity, mortality, and length of stay were analyzed of all pancreatic resections registered during the first two audit years. Case ascertainment was cross-checked with the Dutch healthcare inspectorate and key-variables validated in all centers., Results: Sixteen RCT's and three large series were found. Sixteen indicators and 20 case-mix factors were included in the audit. During 2014-2015, 1785 pancreatic resections were registered including 1345 pancreatoduodenectomies. Overall in-hospital mortality was 3.6%. Following pancreatoduodenectomy, mortality was 4.1%, Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ III morbidity was 29.9%, median (IQR) length of stay 12 (9-18) days, and readmission rate 16.0%. In total 97.2% of >40,000 variables validated were consistent with the medical charts., Conclusions: The Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit, with high quality data, reports good outcomes of pancreatic surgery on a national level., (Copyright © 2017 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomies (PD) are complex surgical procedures. Clinical pathways (CPW) are surgical process improvement tools that guide postoperative recovery and are associated with high quality care. Our objective was to report the quality of surgical care following implementation of a CPW., Methods: We developed and implemented a CPW for patients undergoing PD at a single high volume hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) centre. Patient outcomes were collected prospectively during the implementation period. A comparator cohort was selected by identifying patients that underwent a PD prior to CPW development., Results: 122 patients underwent a PD during the CPW implementation period; 83 patients were initiated on the CPW. 74 patients underwent PD during the 12-month period prior to the CPW. The median hospital stay decreased after the implementation of the CPW (11 vs 8 days, p < 0.01) with no significant changes to mortality, morbidity, reoperation, or readmission rates. In-hospital complications were significantly higher in patients that were not initiated on the CPW (54% vs 74%, p = 0.03)., Conclusion: Results suggest the CPW reduced variability and allowed a greater proportion of patients to receive all elements of care, resulting in improved quality and efficiency of care based on current best evidence recommendations., (Copyright © 2017 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: The aim of the present study was to assess recent trends in pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and the role of institutional standardization on the development of postoperative complications in 3,378 patients who underwent PD in Japan., Methods: Data were collected from 3,378 patients who underwent PD in 2006, 2010 and 2014 at 53 institutions. A standardized institution (SI) was defined as one that implements ≥7 of 13 quality initiatives according to departmental policy. There were 1,223 patients in the SI group and 2,155 in the non-SI group. Clinical parameters were compared over time, and between groups. Risk factors for morbidity and mortality were assessed by logistic regression analysis with a mixed-effects model., Results: The number of patients who underwent PD in SIs increased from 16.5% in 2006 to 46.4% in 2014. The SI group experienced an improved process of care and a lower frequency of severe complications vs. the non-SI group (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that the SI group was associated with a lower incidence of delayed gastric emptying (odds ratio -0.499, P = 0.008) and incisional surgical site infection (odds ratio -0.999, P < 0.001)., Conclusion: Standardization of care in PD may be important in reducing post-PD complications, and is a critical element for improving clinical outcomes., (© 2017 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background: Pancreatoduodenectomy is a technically challenging surgical procedure with an incidence of postoperative complications ranging from 30% to 61%. The procedure requires a high level of experience, and to minimize surgery-related complications and mortality, a high-quality standard surgery is imperative., Aim: To understand the Brazilian practice patterns for pancreatoduodenectomy., Method: A questionnaire was designed to obtain an overview of the surgical practice in pancreatic cancer, specific training, and experience in pancreatoduodenectomy. The survey was sent to members who declared an interest in pancreatic surgery., Results: A total of 60 questionnaires were sent, and 52 have returned (86.7%). The Southeast had the most survey respondents, with 25 surgeons (48.0%). Only two surgeons (3.9%) performed more than 50% of their pancreatoduodenectomies by laparoscopy. A classic Whipple procedure was performed by 24 surgeons (46.2%) and a standard International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery lymphadenectomy by 43 surgeons (82.7%). For reconstruction, pancreaticojejunostomy was performed by 49 surgeons (94.2%), single limb technique by 41(78.9%), duct-to-mucosa anastomosis by 38 (73.1%), internal trans-anastomotic stenting by 26 (50.0%), antecolic route of gastric reconstruction by 39 (75.0%), and Braun enteroenterostomy was performed by only six surgeons (11.5%). Prophylactic abdominal drainage was performed by all surgeons, and somatostatin analogues were utilized by six surgeons (11.5%). Early postoperative enteral nutrition was routine for 22 surgeons (42.3%), and 34 surgeons (65.4%) reported routine use of a nasogastric suction tube., Conclusion: Heterogeneity was observed in the pancreatoduodenectomy practice patterns of surgeons in Brazil, some of them in contrast with established evidence in the literature.

Background: Fistula Risk Score (FRS) is a previously developed tool to assess the risk of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) following pancreatoduodenectomy (PD)., Methods: Prospectively collected databases from 4 university affiliated and non-affiliated HPB centers in United States and Canada were used. The influence of individual baseline characteristics, FRS and FRS group on CR-POPF was assessed in univariate and multivariate analyses. FRS calculator performance was assessed using a C-statistic., Results: 444 patients were identified. Pathology, soft pancreas texture and pancreatic duct size were associated with CR-POPF rates (p < 0.001 for each); EBL was not (p = 0.067). The negligible risk group consisted of 50 (11.3%) patients, low risk of 118 (26.6%), moderate 234 (52.7%) and high risk group of 42 (9.5%) patients. The overall rate of CR-POPF was 20%. Of the patients in the negligible risk group, 2% developed CR-POPF, 13.6% of the low risk, 23.1% moderate and 42.9% in the high risk group (p < 0.001). Overall C-statistic was 0.719., Conclusion: FRS is robust and able to stratify the risk of developing CR-POPF following PD in diverse North American academic and non-academic institutions. The FRS should be used in research and to guide clinical management of patients post PD in these institutions., (Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim: This study was conducted to analyze the changes in margin positivity in pancreaticoduodenectomies, on using a standardized protocol, which bread loafs the pancreas and duodenum in the axial plane for adenocarcinomas arising in the pancreatic head, ampulla, terminal common bile duct (CBD), and duodenum, and then to assess whether these tumor subsets involve the margins in different ways., Methods: The analysis was performed on 70 consecutive specimens, the pre-protocol specimens serving as the control group., Results and Conclusions: Tumors originating from the pancreatic head, ampulla, terminal CBD, and duodenum showed a consistent increase in their R1 incidence, post-protocol. Ampullary tumors showed the greatest upward change in R1 positivity. The highest incidence of margin positivity was seen in pancreatic head adenocarcinomas (80%), then distal CBD tumors (60%), and finally the ampullary tumors (39%). In pancreatic head adenocarcinomas, R1 increased from 55% to 80%, distal CBD from 50% to 60%, and ampullary from 17% to 39%. Duodenal adenocarcinomas had no R1 in both pre- and post-protocol groups. The tumors also had different patterns of margin involvement. Ampullary tumors involved only the posterior margin, pancreatic adenocarcinomas involved the superior mesenteric vein (SMV) groove more often than the posterior margin, and distal CBD tumors involved the posterior margin and SMV groove equally. The size of the tumor made a significant difference in pancreatic head carcinomas with tumor size less than or equal to 2 cm, showing an R1 incidence of 38%, while those above 2 cm had an R1 incidence of 68%.

Background: As payment models evolve, disease-specific risk stratification may impact patient selection and financial outcomes. This study sought to determine whether a validated clinical risk score for post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) could predict hospital costs, payments, and profit margins., Methods: A multi-institutional cohort of 1193 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) were matched to an independent hospital where cost, in US$, and payment data existed. An analytic model detailed POPF risk and post-operative sequelae, and their relationship with hospital cost and payment., Results: Per-patient hospital cost for negligible-risk patients was $37,855. Low-, moderate-, and high- risk patients had incrementally higher hospital costs of $38,125 ($270; 0.7% above negligible-risk), $41,128 ($3273; +8.6%), and $41,983 ($3858; +10.9%), respectively. Similarly, hospital payment for negligible-risk patients was $42,685/patient, with incrementally higher payments for low-risk ($43,265; +1.4%), moderate-risk ($45,439; +6.5%) and high-risk ($46,564; +9.1%) patients. The lowest 30-day readmission rates - with highest net profit - were found for negligible/low-risk patients (10.5%/11.1%), respectively, compared with readmission rates of moderate/high-risk patients (15%/15.7%)., Conclusion: Financial outcomes following PD can be predicted using the FRS. Such prediction may help hospitals and payers plan for resource allocation and payment matched to patient risk, while providing a benchmark for quality improvement initiatives., (Copyright © 2016 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate and quantify surgical skill by grading surgical performance of the pancreaticojejunostomy from robotic pancreaticoduodenectomies (RPDs). We hypothesized that video grading of surgical performance would contribute to estimating risk of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy., Background: POPF majorly contributes to pancreaticoduodenectomy morbidity. Risk scores [Fistula Risk Score (FRS) and Braga] derived from patient variables are validated for predicting POPF. Birkmeyer et al showed assessment of surgical proficiency is an important component of outcomes., Methods: POPF was diagnosed using International Study Group definition. Technical performance of robotic pancreaticojejunostomy video was graded by 2 blinded surgeons using: (1) pancreaticojejunostomy step-by-step variables [PJ-specific variables (PJVs); max = 115]; and (2) the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score., Results: One hundred thirty-three pancreaticojejunostomies were analyzed. POPF was 18%. Higher FRS (P = 0.011) and Braga (P = 0.041) scores predicted POPF. Graders' subjective prediction did not correlate with FRS/Braga scores. Grader 1 scores (P = 0.043), but not grader 2 (P = 0.44), predicted POPF. PJV scores >105 were predictive of POPF (P = 0.039). Scoring only PJV duct-to-mucosa stitches (max = 50) was highly predictive of POPF (P = 0.0053). Higher OSATS scores were associated with a decreased rate of POPF (P = 0.022). On multivariate analysis, adding technical scoring to statistically significant patient variables (ie, gland texture) improves the model and can independently predict POPF. The strongest predictive model for POPF consisted of soft gland (odds ratio = 18.28, 95% confidence interval = 2.19-152.57) and low OSATS (odds ratio = 0.82, 95% confidence interval = 0.70-0.96). OSATS, modeled with FRS or Braga scores, independently predicted POPF., Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate that technical scoring of a surgeon's performance independently predicts patient outcomes in pancreatic surgery. Future studies should consider how to validate and incorporate technical metrics.

Background: Pancreas surgery has evolved with better diagnostic imaging, changing indications, and improved patient selection. Outside high-volume tertiary centers, the documented effect of evolution in care and volumes are limited. Thus, we aimed to review indications and outcomes in pancreas surgery during the transition from community-based hospital to a university hospital., Methods: All pancreatic surgeries performed between 1986 and 2012 within a well-defined Norwegian population were identified from the hospital's database. Indications and postoperative outcomes, including mortality, were investigated., Results: Of the 219 included patients (54% males; median age, 64 years), 150 (69%) underwent pancreatoduodenectomy; 55 (25%), distal resection; and 5 (2%), enucleation. The annual number of operations increased during the study period (from <10/yr to >20/yr). Most patients (169; 77%) underwent surgery for suspected malignancy. The 30-day mortality decreased significantly over time among patients treated for pancreatic cancer (from 16.1% to 3.5%; p = 0.012). Over time, significant reductions in median hospitalization time (19 versus 12 days; p < 0.001), re-operation rate (37.1% versus 8.4%; p < 0.001), and median ICU stay (3 versus 0 days; p < 0.001) were observed., Conclusion: The transition to university hospital and increase in volume has led to significant improvements in several performance metrics and reduced postoperative mortality. We believe improved perioperative management and focused, multidisciplinary care-bundles to be of importance., (Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: Durable clinical gains in surgical care are frequently reliant on well-developed standardization of practices. We hypothesized that the standardization of surgical management would result in improved long-term survival in pancreatic cancer., Methods: Seventy-seven consecutive, eligible patients representing all patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and received comprehensive, long-term postoperative care at the University of Florida were analyzed. Patients were divided into prestandardization and poststandardization groups based on the implementation of a pancreatic surgery partnership, or standardization program., Results: Standardization resulted in a reduction in median length of stay (10 vs 12 days; P = .032), as well as significant gains in disease-free survival (17 vs 11 months; P = .017) and overall survival (OS; 26 vs 16 months; P = .004). The improvement in overall survival remained significant on multivariate analysis (hazard ratio = .46, P = .005)., Conclusions: Standardization of surgical management of pancreatic cancer was associated with significant gains in long-term survival. These results suggest strongly that management of pancreatic head adenocarcinoma be standardized likely by regionalization of care at high performing oncologic surgery programs., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Data of pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) cases from the National Clinical Database (NCD) were analyzed in order to validate the board certification system established by the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery (JSHBPS)., Methods: Board-certified A training institutions and board-certified B training institutions were required to perform at least 50 and 30 high-level hepato-biliary-pancreatic (HBP) surgeries per year, respectively. Records of 17,563 patients who had undergone PD during 2011 and 2012 were retrospectively analyzed according to the category of the board-certified institution and with or without participation of board-certified instructors or expert surgeons., Results: Operative mortality rates after PDs performed at certified A institutions, certified B institutions, and non-certified institutions were 1.5%, 3.0%, and 3.9%, respectively (P < 0.001). The operative mortality rates after PDs performed with participation of certified instructors or expert surgeons were better than those without (2.2% vs. 3.8%, P < 0.001). A multiple logistic regression model showed that cutoffs of high-level HBP surgeries performed per year at hospitals that predicted 30-day mortality after PDs were 10 and 50, and that those that predicted operative mortality were 10 and 70., Conclusions: The requirements for board-certified institutions, instructors, and expert surgeons to perform PD were appropriate. The requirements for board-certified A institutions were close to the identified cutoffs. Further analyses are necessary to elucidate the implications of the board certification system., (© 2016 Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery.)

Background: Laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD), an advanced minimally invasive technique, has demonstrated advantages to open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD). However, this complex procedure requires a relatively long training period to ensure technical proficiency. This study was therefore designed to analyze the learning curve for LPD., Methods: From October 2010 to September 2015, 63 standard pancreaticoduodenectomy procedures were to be performed laparoscopically by a single surgeon at the Department of Pancreatic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 57 patients were included in the study. Data for all the patients, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables, were prospectively collected and analyzed. The learning curve for LPD was evaluated using both cumulative sum (CUSUM) and risk-adjusted CUSUM (RA-CUSUM) methods. All of the variables among the learning curve phases were compared., Results: Based on the CUSUM and the RA-CUSUM analyses, the learning curve for LPD was grouped into three phases: phase I was the initial learning period (cases 1-11), phase II represented the technical competence period (cases 12-38), and phase III was regarded as the challenging period (cases 39-57). The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative ICU demand significantly decreased with the learning curve. More lymph nodes were collected after the initial learning period. There were no significant differences in terms of postoperative complications or the 30-day mortality among the three phases. More challenging cases were encountered in phase III., Conclusions: According to this study, the learning curve for LPD consisted of three phases. Conservatively, to attain technical competence for performing LPD, a minimum of 40 cases are required for laparoscopic surgeons with a degree of laparoscopic experience.

Background: According to current guidelines, pancreatic cancer patients should be strictly selected for surgery, either palliative or resective., Methods: Population-based study, including all patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer in Italy between 2010 and 2012. Hospitals were divided into five volume groups (quintiles), to search for differences among volume categories., Results: There were 544 hospitals performing 10 936 pancreatic cancer operations. The probability of undergoing palliative/explorative surgery was inversely related to volume, being 24.4% in very high-volume hospitals and 62.5% in very low-volume centres (adjusted OR 5.175). Contrarily, the resection rate in patients without metastases decreased from 86.9% to 46.1% (adjusted OR 7.429). As for resections, the mortality of non-resective surgery was inversely related to volume (p < 0.001). Surprisingly, mortality of non-resective surgery was higher than that for resections (8.2% vs. 6.7%; p < 0.01). Approximately 9% of all resections were performed on patients with distant metastases, irrespective of hospital volume group. The excess cost for the National Health System from surgery overuse was estimated at 12.5 million euro., Discussion: Discrepancies between guidelines on pancreatic cancer treatment and surgical practice were observed. An overuse of surgery was detected, with serious clinical and economic consequences., (Copyright © 2016 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Management of cystic lesions of the pancreas (CLP) is controversial. In this study, we sought to evaluate national changes in the resection of CLP over time, to better understand the impact of evolving guidelines on CLP management., Methods: We used Medicare data to examine CLP resection among patients undergoing pancreatic resection between 2001 and 2012. Patients with a diagnosis of CLP were identified and compared to patients with non-CLP indications. We then examined changes over time in patient and hospital characteristics and outcomes among patients with a CLP diagnosis., Results: We identified 56,419 Medicare patients undergoing pancreatic resection, of which 2129 had a CLP diagnosis. The annual number of CLP resections, and proportion of all resections performed for CLP increased significantly during the period, from 2.1% (65/3072) resections in 2001, to 4.5% (286/6348) in 2012 (p < 0.001). The proportion of CLP resections with a malignant diagnosis did not change (15.5% in 2001-2003 vs. 13.1% in 2010-2012, p = 0.4). Overall rates of 30-day mortality decreased significantly during the period (9.6% in 2001-2003 vs. 5.5% in 2010-2012, p < 0.001)., Discussion: CLP resections were performed with increasing frequency in Medicare patients between 2001 and 2012, but this did not correspond to increased diagnosis of malignancy. Additional research is needed to understand the influence of recent guidelines on management of CLP., (Copyright © 2016 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)