Enucleation for benign or borderline tumors of the pancreas: comparing open and minimally invasive surgery

Background: The feasibility and safety of minimally invasive enucleation (ME) for benign or borderline pancreatic tumors is still unclear. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes between ME and open enucleation (OE). Methods: All patients undergoing pancreatic enucleation between October 2001 and January 2020 were analyzed from a prospective database. Consecutive patients undergoing ME were compared with patients undergoing OE in a matched-pair analysis (1:2). Results: Of 358 patients, undergoing enucleation, 120 matched patients (ME n = 40, OE n = 80) were included. Patients undergoing ME had less blood loss (median 50 vs. 100 ml, P = 0.025) and had a higher proportion of patients discharged by 7 days, than patients undergoing OE (38% vs. 18%, P = 0.016). The rates of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and major complications (Clavien grade > 3) were similar between both groups. Risk factor analysis for POPF B/C showed no significant parameters associated with POPF, including tumor size and proximity to the main pancreatic duct. Conclusion: Compared with conventional OE, ME reduces the amount of bleeding and allows earlier postoperative discharge, without increasing the incidence of major complications. Thus, minimally invasive enucleation should be considered for benign tumors of the pancreas when technically and oncologically feasible.

Automated summary

This study found that compared with open surgery, minimally invasive enucleation can reduce blood loss, lead to earlier discharge for patients, without increasing the risk of major complications. Therefore, minimally invasive enucleation should be considered as a feasible option for benign pancreatic tumors.