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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
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Laparoscopic Radical Left Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Cancer: Surgical Strategy and Technique Video
Published on: June 6, 2020
Curative resection for left-sided pancreatic malignancy
Magnus Bergenfeldt1, Flemming Moesgaard, Flemming Burcharth
1Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgical Gastroenterology, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark. maber@herlevhosp.kbhamt.dk
Summary
Radical resection for left-sided pancreatic cancer offers outcomes comparable to pancreatic head resections. Achieving complete tumor removal is key for similar survival rates despite advanced stage at diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Pancreatic Cancer Research
Background:
- Limited data exists on surgical management of pancreatic body and tail tumors compared to pancreatic head carcinoma.
- Adenocarcinomas in the body and tail of the pancreas are generally associated with a poorer prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of surgical resection for cure in patients with left-sided pancreatic malignancy.
- To compare outcomes of left-sided pancreatic cancer surgery with established results for pancreatic head cancer.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 20 patients undergoing resection for left-sided pancreatic malignancy.
- Data collected included demographics, symptoms, diagnostics, surgical management, pathology, and postoperative outcomes (morbidity and mortality).
Main Results:
- Postoperative complications occurred in 40% of patients, with one 30-day mortality due to sepsis.
- Median survival for ductal adenocarcinoma was 14 months (5-year survival: 17%); overall median survival was 17 months (5-year survival: 23%).
- Long-term survival exceeding 5 years was observed in one patient with malignant insulinoma and two with adenocarcinoma.
Conclusions:
- Selected patients with left-sided pancreatic adenocarcinoma can achieve postoperative morbidity, mortality, and long-term survival rates similar to those undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) for pancreatic head cancer.
- Radical excision is crucial for achieving comparable treatment results, even when left-sided pancreatic cancer presents at a more advanced stage.
