Effects of pancreatic resection for benign pancreatic neoplasms on pancreatic volume and endocrine function: A long-term computed tomography-based study

Background: Pancreatic surgery may result in changes in pancreatic volume and endocrine function. The effects of pancreatic resection for benign neoplasms on pancreatic volume and endocrine function have not been established yet. This study aimed to investigate the long-term results of different pancreatic surgeries for benign pancreatic neoplasms on pancreatic volume and endocrine function. Methods: The medical records of 30 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and 30 patients who underwent left-sided pancreatectomy(LP) for benign pancreatic neoplasms between 2005 and 2012 were reviewed. The changes in pancreatic volume after pancreatic surgery were assessed using multi-detector row computed tomography volumetry. Endocrine pancreatic function was evaluated on the basis of fasting glucose level or oral glucose tolerance test result. Results: The median follow-up duration was 91.3 months (interquartile range, 75.7–119.1 months). Reduction in pancreatic volume after surgery was more pronounced in patients who underwent PD than in those who underwent LP (median percentage of volume reduction, 23.8% vs 5.1%, p < .001). Multivariable analysis of prognostic factors for endocrine insufficiency showed that PD to be significant factor. (HR 3.87, 95% CI 1.12-14.66, p = .037). Conclusions: The surgical methods for benign pancreatic neoplasms affect the reduction in pancreatic volume. Furthermore, the methods of pancreatic surgery were associated with the risk of endocrine insufficiency. Further studies with a large number of patients are warranted to evaluate the association between the degree of volume reduction and the development of endocrine insufficiency.