Peri-operative, long-term, and quality of life outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy in the elderly: greater justification for periampullary cancer compared to pancreatic head cancer.

BACKGROUND Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is more challenging in the elderly. METHODS Data of patients undergoing PD above 70 years of age was analysed to study short and long-term outcomes along with the quality of life parameters (QOL). RESULTS Out of 1271 PDs performed, 94 (7%) patients were 70 years or more. American Society of Anaesthesiology (ASA) scores were higher in comparison to patients below 70 years (ASA 1;20% vs. 54% and ASA 2&3;80% vs. 46%, p < 0.001). The postoperative 90-day mortality rate of 5.3% and morbidity (Clavein Grade III and IV of 27%) was higher but non-significant compared to 3.9% (p = 0.50) and 20% (p = 0.11) in patients less than 70 years. The median survival of 40 months was significantly better for periampullary carcinoma when compared to 15 months in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) (p < 0.0001). Patients, less than 70 years had significantly better 3-year survival; 64% vs 43% with periampullary etiology (p < 0.01) and 29% vs 0% with PDAC (p < 0.0001). QLQ-PAN 26 questionnaire responses were suggestive of good long term QOL in these patients. CONCLUSION Although PD is safe and feasible in the elderly population with good long-term QOL, postoperative morbidity and mortality can be slightly higher and long-term survival significantly lower.