Pancreatectomies for pancreatic neoplasms in pediatric and adolescent age: A single institution experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Pediatric Gastroenterology

Background:

• Limited data exist on the outcomes of pediatric pancreatic tumors (PPT) surgery.
• The impact of pancreatic surgery on pediatric growth remains largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of surgical interventions for pediatric pancreatic tumors.
• To assess the effect of pancreatic surgery on the growth of pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of pediatric/adolescent patients undergoing pancreatic surgery.
• Data collected from Karolinska University Hospital between January 2005 and July 2017.
• Analysis of surgical procedures, tumor histology, post-operative complications, and growth parameters.

Main Results:

• 14 pancreatic operations were performed in 13 pediatric patients (median age 11.4 years).
• Common procedures included pancreaticoduodenectomy and distal pancreatectomy; solid pseudopapillary tumors were most frequent (69.2%).
• Post-operative complications occurred in 23% of patients, with no peri-operative mortality; 30.7% developed exocrine insufficiency and 7.7% endocrine insufficiency. No significant impact on growth was observed.

Conclusions:

• Surgery for pediatric pancreatic tumors (PPT) appears safe and effective in this series.
• Pediatric pancreatic surgery does not seem to significantly affect children's growth.
• Further research is warranted to fully understand long-term outcomes and growth impacts.