Introduction:
Combined total portal vein (PV) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) resection during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is a challenging task that is no longer considered as a contra-indication to achieve R0 in borderline resectable (BR) and locally advanced (LA) pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
Presentation of case:
We report a 66-year-old female with BR-PDAC of the head of the pancreas in whom PV and SMA were replaced with a glutaraldehyde-fixed autologous peritoneo-fascial graft (APG) and a splenomesenteric arterial bypass, respectively, during the PD.
Discussion:
When PV venorraphy or end-to-end anastomosis is not feasible, APG conduit, immediately available without extra-incision, does not need postoperative anticoagulation and is associated with a low risk of infection and thrombosis. If fixed in glutaraldehyde, handling, risk of compression when placed intra-peritoneally and long-term patency of the graft are improved.
Conclusion:
Glutaraldehyde-fixed APG is a strategy that every surgeon should bear in mind for PV replacement during PD and other HBP surgical procedures, especially if a vascular resection is unforeseen.