Extended pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancers

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer carries a poor prognosis. A minority of patients are considered for surgical excision. Local extension, lymph node metastasis, poor prognosis with distal spread and the lack of effectiveness of chemo and radiotherapy, have led to a nihilistic approach to this disease. This review outlines the rationale for and technique of extended resections in pancreatic cancer.