Mortality and Survival Among Octogenarians with Localized Pancreatic Head Cancer: a National Cancer Database Analysis.

Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has historically poor outcomes. Difficult decisions must be made by patients and providers, especially in the elderly for whom treatment morbidities may not be tolerable. Herein, we report treatment-dependent outcomes of octogenarians with localized PDAC.

Starting a High-Quality Pancreatic Surgery Program at a Community Hospital.

Background: Most literature suggests that pancreatic resections should be done by high-volume surgeons at high-volume hospitals to optimize patient outcomes. However, patient preference and insurance requirements may restrict hospital location. After careful planning, a high-volume pancreatic surgeon started performing pancreatectomies at a community hospital.

Addition of algenpantucel-L immunotherapy to standard adjuvant therapy for pancreatic cancer: a phase 2 study.

Background: Despite continued investigation, limited progress has been made in the adjuvant treatment of resected pancreatic cancer. Novel or targeted therapies are needed.

Methods: Multi-institutional, open-label, dose-finding, phase 2 trial evaluating the use of algenpantucel-L (NewLink Genetics Corporation, Ames, IA) immunotherapy in addition to chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy in the adjuvant setting for resected pancreatic cancer (ClinicalTrials.

Is there a learning curve for pancreaticoduodenectomy after fellowship training?

Background: Limited data exist regarding a learning curve for pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This study examines whether a learning curve exists for the performance of PD after fellowship training.

Methods: Review of the outcomes of a single surgeon's first 60 PDs after completion of specialty training in pancreatic surgery.

Pancreatic resection in octogenarians.

Background: Few studies exist that evaluate outcomes of pancreatectomy in patients > or =80 y of age, an age group increasing in size in the United States. This study analyzes the outcomes of pancreatectomy in patients > or =80 y of age.

Methods: The medical records of 32 patients > or =80 y of age undergoing pancreatectomy at our institution from April 1995 through October 2008 were reviewed, and outcomes were analyzed.

An aggressive surgical approach is warranted in the management of cystic pancreatic neoplasms.

Background: Cystic pancreatic neoplasms encompass a range of benign to malignant disease. Recommendations for surgical management vary.

Methods: Records of patients with cystic pancreatic neoplasms from January 1996 through December 2005 were retrospectively reviewed.