Background: In selected patients with chronic pancreatitis, extensive pancreatectomy can be effective for the treatment of intractable pain. The resultant morbid diabetes can be ameliorated with islet autotransplantation (IAT). Conventionally, islet infusion occurs intraoperatively after islet processing. A percutaneous transhepatic route in the immediate postoperative period is an alternative approach.
Methods: A prospectively collected database of patients undergoing pancreatectomy with percutaneous IAT (P-IAT) was reviewed. Hospital billing data were obtained and median charges determined and compared with estimated charges for an intraoperative infusion method of IAT (I-IAT).
Results: Thirty-six patients (28 women; median age 48 years) underwent pancreatectomy with P-IAT. Median operative time was 232 min (range: 98-395 min) and median estimated blood loss was 500 cc (range: 75-3000 cc). Median time from pancreatic resection to islet transplantation was 269 min (range: 145-361 min). A median of 208 248 IEq (2298 IEq/kg) were harvested. Median peak portal venous pressure during islet infusion was 13 mmHg (range: 5-37 mmHg). Postoperative complications occurred in 15 patients (42%) and included hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm and portal vein thrombosis; the latter occurred in two patients with portal pressures during infusion > 30 mmHg. At a median follow-up of 10.7 months, eight patients (22%) were insulin-free. Median pertinent charges for P-IAT were US$36,318 and estimated median charges for I-IAT were US$56,440. Surgeon time freed by P-IAT facilitated an additional 66 procedures, charges for which amounted to US$463,375.
Conclusions: Percutaneous transhepatic IAT is feasible and safe. Islet infusion in the immediate postoperative period is cost-effective. Further follow-up is needed to assess longterm results.
© 2011 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.