Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Minimal invasive surgery is being increasingly used in pancreas surgery. In this study, we aimed to present our laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy experience.

METHODS

Data from 15 patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) due to tumoral lesions of the pancreas, located in the body and tail were retrospectively evaluated. Demographic data, comorbidity, lesion characteristics, surgical outcome and long term follow-up results were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 7 males (46.6%) and 8 females (53.3%) with the mean age of 60.4± 9.82 in the study. Mean tumor diameter was 40.4 (30-70) mm and mean derived lymph nodes was 6 (2-12). Conversion laparotomy was necessary in 6 (40%) patients due to invasion of the adjacent vascular structures or hemorrhage. During the postoperative period, 2 patients (13.3%) developed grade A pancreas fistula and spontaneously closed during follow-up. Mean follow-up period was 22 months (12-36). Operation related mortality wasn’t seen. During the follow-up period, one (6.6%) patient with ductal adenocarcinoma died due to distant metastasis at post-operative 14th month.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy seems a safe alternative to open surgery in patients with benign and malignant lesions of the pancreas body and tail.