Extended lymph node dissection for the carinoma of the head of the pancreas and periampullary adenocarcinoma

Objective: To explore the feasibility and significance of extended lymph node dissection in treating patients with the carcinoma of the head of the pancreas and periampullary adenocarcinoma and to make out the appropriate indications for extended lymph node dissection.Methods: The clinical data of 16 cases of carcinoma of the head of the pancreas and periampullary adenocarcinoma subjected to extended lymph node dissection from October 2000 to October 2003 were analyzed.Results: Six of 16 cases were lymph node positive(37.5%) and the positive rate in cases with the tumor of the head of the pancreas and periampullary adenocarcinoma was not obviously different in the diameter,locating the head of the pancreas(P=0.588-P=0.511).The incidence of complications was not noticeably increased and there was no operative mortality.Conclusions: Extended lymph node dissection in treating patients with carcinoma of the head of the pancreas and periampullary adenocarcinoma appears to be relatively safe,feasible and effective.