Laparoscopic pylorus-preserving pancreatic head resection and hybrid open reconstruction via pancreatogastrostomy.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic pancreatic surgery is ambitious and should only be performed in institutions with expert knowledge in pancreatic surgery. METHODS: Whereas pancreatic tail resection is routinely and safely performed in several institutions, the laparoscopic resection of the pancreatic head is only performed by a handful of surgeons. RESULTS: In this article, we present our hybrid approach with complete laparoscopic pylorus-preserving pancreatic head resection and successive reconstruction via a small retrieval incision, which might combine the advantages of the laparoscopic resection with the safety of an open and routine pancreatic anastomosis.