Splenic artery use for arterial reconstruction in pancreatic surgery

Extended resections in the upper GI tract, especially for pancreatic malignancies, can require resection of the hepatic or superior mesenteric artery. Besides venous or allogenous grafting, the splenic artery can be used for reconstruction in both positions. We hereby describe the different technical possibilities of interposition or transposition to use the splenic artery for restoration of arterial perfusion of the liver or the small bowel following resection of the hepatic or superior mesenteric artery, respectively. The use of the splenic artery is a convenient and appropriate possibility to reconstruct the hepatic or superior mesenteric artery in pancreatic resection with regard to interposition and especially transposition of this vessel. It should be considered in patients suitable to undergo these procedures to extend resectability in pancreatic cancer surgery.