Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy in elderly patients: is it safe?

Background: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) appears to be safe and effective as open distal pancreatectomy (ODP) for benign or borderline malignant lesion. However, studies comparing LDP with ODP in elderly patients are limited. The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical outcomes of these two several approaches in elderly patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out by comparing laparoscopic (n = 7) and open (n = 15) distal pancreatectomy in elderly patients performed at the University of Naples “Federico II” and University of Perugia between January 2012 and December 2015. Demographic data, operative and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Results: Demographic and tumor characteristics of laparoscopic and ODP were similar. There were also no significant differences in operating room time. Patients undergoing LDP had lower blood loss, first flatus time, diet start time and postoperative hospital stay. There were no significant differences in complication rates or 90-day mortality. Discussion: LDP is safe and feasible as ODP in selected elderly patients.