Distal Pancreatectomy

About Distal Pancreatectomy

Distal pancreatectomy removes the body and tail of the pancreas, the portion lying to the left of the major blood vessels. It is performed for tumors in this region, including pancreatic adenocarcinoma, neuroendocrine tumors and cystic neoplasms, and less commonly for chronic pancreatitis or trauma. Unlike the Whipple procedure for tumors of the pancreatic head, it does not require reconstruction of the bile duct or intestine, because the remaining pancreas continues to drain into the duodenum. The spleen lies against the tail of the pancreas and is often removed at the same time, particularly in cancer operations, although spleen preserving techniques are used for some benign tumors. The cut edge of the pancreas is closed with staples or sutures, and leakage of pancreatic fluid from this edge is a well known concern. Laparoscopic and robotic approaches are widely used for this operation. Because part of the insulin producing tissue is removed, blood sugar control can be affected, depending on how much pancreas remains.