A comparison of laparoscopic to open pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma by propensity score matching analysis

Objective

In previous studies, laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (LPD) has demonstrated safety and potential benefits over open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). After performing both LPD and OPD procedures interchangeably in routine practice for a decade, the outcomes of LPD versus OPD for PDAC were analyzed and compared at a single institution. Our primary aim was to compare features of LPD and OPD in PDAC patients so that the suitable surgical approach may be chosen for each individual.

Methods

From January 2010 through December 2020, all patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) were identified, and information was collected prospectively. At a single institution, PD was performed on 589 patients, of whom 347 were OPD patients and 242 were LPD patients. After excluding those who underwent pancreatectomy for indications other than PDAC, total pancreatectomy, major vascular or concomitant organ resection, there were 237 patients (OPD = 157, LPD = 80). Then propensity score matching was completed to analyze 77 OPD patients versus 77 LPD patients to create a similar group of patients who underwent either LPD or OPD for PDAC. A comparison of perioperative data and 90-day outcomes with subsequent statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Operative time (491 min vs. 281 min, p < 0.001) was longer for LPD than OPD. The rates of pancreatic fistula (11.7% vs. 0.0%, p < 0.001) and delayed gastric emptying (15.6% vs. 3.9%, p = 0.027) were higher for LPD than OPD respectively but overall morbidity was similar. Blood loss, mortality and post-pancreatectomy hemorrhage were also similar for both groups, but total costs ($60,245 vs. $50,900, p = 0.002) were significantly higher for LPD than OPD. Recurrence and overall survival were similar for the two groups.

Conclusion

In our experience, LPD does not offer any advantages over OPD for PDAC and is associated with a higher rate of complications and costs.