Splenic vessel preservation versus splenic vessel resection in laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy for low-grade malignant pancreas tumours was recently demonstrated and can be performed with splenic vessel preservation (SVP) or splenic vessel resection (SVR). Whether one approach is superior to another is still a matter of debate.

METHODS: A systematic literature search (PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, Springer-Link and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) was performed. Pooled intra- and post-operative outcomes were evaluated. Stratified and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity between studies and to assess the effects of the study qualities.

RESULTS: A total of six studies were included. There was no significant difference for SVR and SVP in terms of overall post-operative complications and the pooled odds ratio (OR) was 0.87 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55-1.38, I2 = 25%). Meta-analysis on the pooled outcome of intraoperative operative time and blood loss favoured SVR; the mean differences were 18.64 min (95% CI 6.91-30.37 min, I2 = 21%) and 65.67 mL (95% CI 18.88-112.45 mL, I2 = 48%), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed a decrease incidences in perigastric varices (OR = 0.07, 95% CI 0.03-0.18, I2 = 29%) and splenic infarction (OR = 0.16, 95% CI 0.08-0.32, I2 = 0%) in SVP.

CONCLUSION: For selected patients who underwent laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy, an increased preference for the SVP technique should be suggested considering its short-term benefits. However, in case of large tumours that distort and compress vessel course, SVR could be applied with acceptable splenic ischaemia and perigastric varices.