Abstract
Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are of various histological types, ranging form benign adenomas to invasive carcinoma. It is well known that the majority of branch duct IPMNs are benign lesions. Although IPM carcinomas should be resected, it is often difficult to distinguish malignant IPMNs from benign ones preoperatively. Tumor size over 30 mm, presence of mural nodules, and dilatation of the main pancreatic duct are significant predictors of malignancy in branch duct IPMNs. Patients with IPMNs have a favorable outcome and a variety of limited pancreatectomies have been performed. Limited resection is effective for the preservation of exocrine and endocrine pancreatic function, although postoperative complications including pancreatic leakage occurs in some patients.
