Annals of surgical oncology
-
Different tumor-specific prognostic factors have been identified in recent years for patients who undergo surgery due to pancreatic head cancer, but the results often were inconsistent. Furthermore, the impact of postoperative complications on patient long-term survival has not been described. ⋯ This large study demonstrates that severe postoperative complications have a strong impact on the long-term survival of patients with pancreatic head cancer comparable to tumor characteristics, such as lymph node status, grading, or R status. As a result, the improvement of surgical procedures in specialized centers might lead to a survival benefit in these patients.
-
Cavity shave margin (CSM) removal is a surgical technique that reduces re-excision rates. One criticism of this technique has been that negative margins are obtained primarily as a result of higher volumes of tissue removed. This study evaluates the volume of tissue removed in a group that underwent CSM versus one that underwent standard partial mastectomy (SPM) and explores cosmetic outcomes. ⋯ CSM decreases the need for re-excision. Total tissue volume excised is lower in patients who undergo CSM, and cosmetic results appear to be improved. This approach should be considered for all patients undergoing PM.
-
There are many theoretical advantages that a minimally invasive approach to the pancreaticoduodenectomy might offer patients with benign and malignant disease of the head of the pancreas over traditional open techniques, including improved recovery time, decreased hospital stay, and earlier initiation of and higher rate of completion of adjuvant therapy. The goal of this study was to assess the oncologic and safety outcomes after a robot-assisted approach to pancreaticoduodenectomy. ⋯ RAPD can be performed with safety and oncologic outcomes comparable to open or laparoscopic approaches. Results of this early series suggest that the robot-assisted approach holds promise. Larger, more mature multi-institutional cohorts will be needed to explore potential benefits over open and laparoscopic techniques.