Younger Age and Parenchyma-Sparing Surgery Positively Affected Long-Term Health-Related Quality of Life after Surgery for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms

Abstract

(1) Background: Patients with pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (PanNENs) often have a long overall survival. We evaluated determinants of quality of life (QoL) after surgery for PanNENs. (2) Methods: Patients operated on for a PanNEN in our center (1990–2021) received three EORTC QoL questionnaires (QLQ-C30, QLQ-GI.NET21, QLQ-PAN26). Six domains were selected as outcome variables (global QoL, physical function -PF, social function -SF, disease-related worries -DRWs, pain, upper-gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms) and evaluated in relation to the clinical variables. Statistical analysis was performed using R software v 4.2.2. (3) Results: One hundred and four patients enrolled showed a good global QoL (median 83.3). Old age was a determinant of worse global QoL (p 0.006) and worse PF (p 0.003). Multiple comorbidities (p 0.002) and old age (p 0.034) were associated with pain, while male gender was related to better PF (p 0.007) and less pain (p 0.012). Patients who had undergone parenchyma-sparing surgery demonstrated better PF (p 0.037), better SF (p 0.012), and less upper-GI symptoms (p 0.047). At multivariable analysis, age (p 0.005) and type of surgery (p 0.028) were confirmed as determinants of global QoL. (4) Conclusions: In patients operated on for a PanNEN, a good HRQoL is generally reported; notably, younger age and parenchyma-sparing surgery seem to positively affect HRQoL.