J Korean Surg Soc.  2006 Jun;70(6):486-490.

Laparoscopic Assisted Pylorus-preserving Pancreatoduodenectomy Performed for Cystic Tumor in the Head of the Pancreas

• Yoon YS
• Han HS
• Choi YS
• Jang JY
• Kim SW
• Park YH

Abstract

Surgery on the pancreas is difficult with a laparoscopic approach due to its retroperitoneal location and proximity to major vessels, such as the hepatic artery and portal vein. For this reason, experiences of laparoscopic pancreatic surgery have been limited and moreover, only about 10 cases of laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) have been documented since its introduction by Gagner in 1994. Herein, we present 3 cases of laparoscopic assisted pylorus preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (PPPD) of cystic tumors located in the head of the pancreas. There was no mortality, but postoperative bleeding was associated with pancreatic fistula in two cases. Our initial experience demonstrates the technical feasibility of a laparoscopic PD. However, the risk of complications related to the complex reconstruction procedures, with the open method, still exists. To overcome this limitation and establish the safety of this procedure, further experiences along with new operative instruments and techniques will be required.

Keyword

Laparoscopy; Pancreatoduodenectomy

MeSH Terms

Head*
Hemorrhage
Hepatic Artery
Laparoscopy
Mortality
Pancreas*
Pancreatic Fistula
Pancreaticoduodenectomy*
Portal Vein
Pylorus