Robotic versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy in elderly patients: a meta-analysis
By
Cuifang Zeng
Lin Xie
Jie Zhang
Gang Tang
Rongxing Zhou
July 14, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Comparison of Robotic and Open Approaches to Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Pancreaticoduodenectomy Key Mechanisms Robotic vs. Open surgical approaches Target Population Elderly patients aged 70 years or more Care Setting Surgical practice for pancreatic cancer and periampullary diseases
Key Highlights
RPD associated with lower overall morbidity (OR, 0.45) Fewer major complications in RPD group (OR, 0.68) Less intraoperative blood loss in RPD (MD, -119.25 mL) Lower blood transfusion rates in RPD (OR, 0.50) Shorter hospital stay for RPD patients (MD, -1.63 days) Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Management
Consider RPD for elderly patients requiring PD due to lower morbidity and complications. Monitoring & Follow-up
Risks
Elderly patients have higher prevalence of comorbidities and reduced physiological reserve. Patient & Prescribing Data
Elderly patients aged 70 years or more requiring pancreaticoduodenectomy
RPD may offer improved perioperative outcomes compared to OPD.
Clinical Best Practices
Adopt minimally invasive techniques where appropriate for elderly patients. Ensure meticulous perioperative management for elderly patients undergoing PD. Related Resources & Content
