Risk of conversion to open surgery during robotic and laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy and effect on outcomes:

S Lof1,2, F L Vissers2, S Klompmaker2

  • 1Department of Surgery, Southampton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.

Abstract

Insights

Conversion during minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy (MIPD) is not associated with worse patient outcomes. Key risk factors for conversion include older age, larger tumors, and procedures in medium-volume centers.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology and Hepatology
  • Surgical Oncology
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

  • Minimally invasive pancreatoduodenectomy (MIPD) is gaining traction due to potential patient benefits.
  • Uncertainty exists regarding the impact of converting MIPD to open surgery on patient outcomes and the factors driving this conversion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate whether conversion from MIPD to open pancreatoduodenectomy affects patient outcomes.
  • To identify risk factors associated with conversion during MIPD procedures.

Main Methods:

  • A post hoc analysis of a European multicenter retrospective cohort study (2012-2017) involving patients undergoing MIPD.
  • Propensity score matching (1:1) was employed to compare outcomes between converted and non-converted MIPD cases.
  • Multivariable logistic regression identified risk factors for conversion.

Main Results:

  • Conversion occurred in 9.2% of MIPDs (65 of 709).
  • Risk factors for conversion included larger tumor size (>40 mm), pancreatobiliary tumors, age ≥75 years, laparoscopic approach, and procedures in medium-volume centers.
  • After propensity score matching, no significant differences in major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥III) or 30-day mortality were observed between converted and non-converted groups.

Conclusions:

  • Risk factors for MIPD conversion include patient age, tumor characteristics, surgical approach, and center volume.
  • Conversion itself did not worsen outcomes, but overall outcomes for patients requiring conversion were generally poor, highlighting the importance of careful patient selection for MIPD.

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