2007 Volume 22 Issue 4 Pages 447-453
Objective:Clinical guidelines for the management of pancreatic cancer were published in 2005 from Japan Pancreas Society. The objectives of this study were to assess how the guidelines have been used by physicians and surgeons and to survey their opinions on it. Methods:A questionnaire was designed and sent to 2,078 doctors mainly of members of Japan Pancreas Society. Results:A total of 168 answers for the questionnaire were obtained, with the responsibility rate being 5.1%. Most of the doctors noticed the guidelines in the medical congress, where the public hearing was carried. Most of the purposes for using the guidelines were determination of the treatment and to order the knowledge of treatment of pancreatic cancer. The guidelines had an influence on their practice in the great majority of doctors although the evidence levels of publications were low and most of the recommendations were graded as C. Answers gave us many useful opinions including requests for revision. Conclusion:This study revealed that the guidelines were utilized by many physicians and surgeons. It also indicated that the publication of the guidelines contributed to their management of pancreatic cancer. There were many useful suggestions for the guidelines which would be reflected at the time of the revision.
