Is laparoscopic left pancreatic resection justified?

Abstract

Background: We reviewed our experience of laparoscopic left pancreatectomy to establish the feasibility of this approach and the characteristics of the operating procedure.

Methods: Thirteen patients with a mean age of 60 years were deemed for a left pancreatectomy. Preoperative diagnoses were: nine mucinous cystadenoma and one insulinoma, intraductal mucinous ectasia, chronic pancreatitis with ductal stenosis, and distal pancreatic tumor.

Results: Operative mortality was nil. Two patients required conversion for bleeding from splenic vein injuries leading to a splenectomy in one case. The spleen was preserved in 10 cases. Postoperative course was uneventful in nine cases. Four patients experienced postoperative complications: one pancreatic fistula, two liquid cysts on the pancreatic margin, and one reoperation for bleeding from a trocar port. Length of stay ranged from 5 to 22 days.

Conclusion: These preliminary results confirm that in selected cases laparoscopic resection of the left pancreas is feasible and safe.