Perioperative and Long-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Versus Open Lymphadenectomy for Biliary Tumors: A Propensity-Score-Based, Case-Matched Analysis

The purpose of this study was to compare patients undergoing MILS and open liver resections with associated lymphadenectomy for biliary tumors (intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer) in a case-matched analysis using propensity scores. A total of 104 consecutive patients underwent liver resection with associated locoregional lymphadenectomy by laparoscopic approach constituted the study group (MILS group). The MILS group was matched in a ratio of 1:2 with patients who had undergone open resection for primary biliary cancers (Open group). Short- and long-term outcomes were evaluated and compared, with specific focus on specific details of lymphadenectomy. Laparoscopic series resulted in a statistically significant lower blood loss (200 vs. 350, p = 0.03), minor intraoperative blood transfusions (3.2% vs. 7.9%, p = 0.04), and postoperative blood transfusions (10.5% vs. 15.8%), other than shorter length of stay (4 vs. 6 days, p = 0.04). Number of retrieved nodes was 8 versus 7 (p = not significant); particularly, percentage of patients who achieved the recommended AJCC cutoff of six lymph nodes harvested were 93.7% versus 85.8% (p = 0.05). Both overall and lymphadenectomy-related morbidity (bleeding, pancreatitis, lymphatic fistula, vascular, and biliary injuries) were lower in MILS group (respectively 16.3% and 3.2% vs. 22.1% and 5.3%, p = 0.03). Median disease-free survival was 33 versus 36 months and disease recurrence occurred in 45.3% versus 55.3% of patients in MILS and Open groups respectively. Laparoscopic approach for lymphadenectomy is a valid option in patients with biliary cancers, because it allows to maintain the advantages of minimally invasive approach, without compromising the accuracy and the outcomes of nodal dissection.