Extended distal pancreatectomy in pancreatic cancer: is it justified? A systematic review of literature

Background: Extended distal pancreatectomy (EDP) is being increasingly performed for pancreatic cancers with suspected invasion into the adjacent organs. However, the perioperative safety and oncological efficacy of this procedure merit further elucidation. Methods: Major databases were searched for studies evaluating EDP, and a meta-analysis was performed using fixed- or random-effects models. Results: Fifteen studies were included in the analysis. EDP was found to be associated with significantly greater incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula overall and with major complications, re-explorations, mortality and readmissions. However, on pooled analysis of 3- and 5-year survival, EDP was found to be noninferior to standard distal pancreatectomy. Conclusion: EDP is feasible and may offer equivalent survival in highly selected patients but carries a higher risk of perioperative morbidity and mortality.