Robotic-assisted central pancreatectomy: A minimally invasive approach for benign and low-grade lesions

Background: Centrally located pancreatic lesions are often treated with extended pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy resulting in loss of healthy parenchyma and a high risk of diabetes and exocrine insufficiency. Robotic central pancreatectomy (RCP) is a parenchyma sparring alternative that has been shown safe and feasible [1,2].Methods: In this article, we describe our operative technique and the perioperative outcomes of a series of RCP for low-grade or benign pancreatic tumors.Results: Six patients (5 female and 1 man) with a median age of 51.5 (44-68) years underwent a RCP for 2 serous cystadenomas, 2 mucinous cystic tumors, 1 neuroendocrine tumor, and 1 autoimmune pancreatitis. There were no conversions, intraoperative complications, or perioperative transfusions. Median operative time and was 240 (230-291) minutes and median blood loss was 100 (100-400) ml. The median hospital stay was 8 (5-27) days. There were no mortalities, reoperations, or readmissions. One patient developed a grade B pancreatic fistula which was successfully managed conservatively. All resections had free margins and the median tumor size was 2.5 (1.5-3.5) cm. After a mean follow-up of 46 months, no patients presented new-onset diabetes or exocrine insufficiency. Conclusions: RCP represents the least invasive option for both the patient and the pancreatic parenchyma. With a standardized technique, RCP results in low postoperative morbidity and excellent long-term pancreatic function. Although our results are excellent, POPF still represents the main complication of central pancreatectomy with an incidence ranging from 0 to 80% depending on multiple factors such as the surgeon, technique, and pancreatic texture.

Automated summary

This study describes the operative technique and perioperative outcomes of robotic central pancreatectomy (RCP). Six patients underwent RCP with low operative time, low blood loss, and short hospital stay. Follow-up showed no new onset diabetes or exocrine insufficiency.