What is central pancreatectomy?
During the operation, the neck or the central part of the body of the pancreas containing the lesion is removed.
Unlike standard resections, the following are preserved:
- the head of the pancreas
- the tail of the pancreas
- the spleen
- the major blood vessels (whenever possible)
After the central segment is removed, drainage of pancreatic juice is restored by creating a pancreaticojejunostomy or pancreaticogastrostomy.
Our approach
At MSI, central pancreatectomy is performed only in carefully selected patients, when it is safe and avoids unnecessary removal of functioning pancreatic tissue.
Before surgery, a full examination is carried out, including:
- multiphase computed tomography or MRI
- laboratory tests
- tumor markers
- when indicated, endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy
The main goal of the operation is complete removal of the lesion while preserving as much pancreatic function as possible.
*When technically feasible, we aim to perform central pancreatectomy laparoscopically.* The minimally invasive approach means less surgical trauma, faster recovery, and a better cosmetic result.
Postoperative treatment follows the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)*.
When is surgery needed?
Central pancreatectomy is performed for:
- small neuroendocrine tumors
- serous cystadenoma
- solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN)
- certain cystic lesions
- other benign or precancerous tumors of the neck or body of the pancreas
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended when:
- the tumor is located in the neck or central body of the pancreas
- the lesion is benign or of low malignant potential
- the head and tail of the pancreas can be preserved
- there are no signs of locally advanced malignant disease
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After the pancreas is mobilized, its central segment is resected while the head and tail are preserved. A reconstruction is then created to ensure drainage of pancreatic juice from the distal part of the gland.
The removed specimen is sent for histopathological examination.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery
- Performed laparoscopically whenever possible
- Maximum preservation of pancreatic tissue
- Preservation of the organ's exocrine and endocrine function
- Preservation of the spleen
- Less surgical trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Faster recovery
- Shorter hospital stay
Recovery after surgery
Postoperative treatment follows *ERAS* principles. Eating is resumed gradually, and pancreatic function and blood glucose are monitored.
Because most of the organ is preserved, the risk of diabetes and exocrine insufficiency is lower than after standard resections.
Our advantages
- An organ-preserving approach for benign and precancerous tumors
- Maximum preservation of pancreatic function
- A commitment to laparoscopic surgery
- Preservation of the spleen whenever possible
- Individual choice of the extent of surgery
- A multidisciplinary approach to treatment
- Enhanced recovery program (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
In central pancreatectomy, both the head and the tail of the pancreas are preserved. This preserves as much organ function as possible and lowers the risk of diabetes and enzyme insufficiency.
As a rule, no. Central pancreatectomy is performed mainly for benign or low-grade lesions. For adenocarcinoma, oncological resections of the required extent remain the standard.
Yes. When indicated and technically feasible, we aim to perform central pancreatectomy laparoscopically.
Because most of the pancreas is preserved, enzyme replacement therapy is needed much less often than after major resections.
The main advantage is maximum preservation of pancreatic function without compromising the radicality of treatment in properly selected patients.