Virtual Endoscopy of Mucin-Producing Pancreas Tumors

We have used computer based virtual endoscopy techniques as a novel approach to clarify the 3D surgical anatomy of the pancreas and improve preoperative surgical planning. 13 cases (18 lesions) with mucin-producing pancreas tumors were investigated by “virtual pancreatoscopy”. All cystic tumors and the pancreatic ducts were displayed by virtual endoscopy. The surfaces of intraductal papillary adenocarcinomas were illustrated more irregularly than benign cystic lesions. Virtual pancreatoscopy was useful for surgical planning of minimally invasive resection of the pancreas.