Pancreatic surgery

Recent advances have been made in both laparoscopic and endoscopic techniqu es for diagnosing and treating pancreatic neoplasms. These advances are rev iewed. In addition to the traditional methods of pancreatic resection (eg, standard Whipple and pylorus-preserving Whipple), several other techniques have been described and are discussed (eg, median pancreatectomy and extend ed pancreatectomy). The morbidity and mortality rates of pancreatic operati ons have diminished, but significant complications still occur (eg, delayed gastric emptying, pancreatic fistula, and biliary strictures). These are d iscussed. In managing acute and chronic pancreatitis, less invasive and mor e conservative approaches are being advocated. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2001 . 17:441-445 (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.