March 26, 2026Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology0 citationsOpen Access
View Full PaperThromboembolic Risks in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Review of Anatomical and Clinical Variations
Key Points
- This review aims to explore anatomical and clinical variations impacting thromboembolic risks in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
- Review of anatomical variations in PDAC based on tumor location.
- Assessment of venous thromboembolism risk factors and monitoring parameters.
- Analysis of intervention strategies, including anticoagulation.
- Examination of surgical procedures such as pancreaticoduodenectomy and distal pancreatectomy.
- Distinctive risk factors for VTE formation based on tumor location were identified.
- Proposed tools for assessing VTE risk in PDAC patients were discussed.
- Intervention strategies like prophylactic anticoagulation showed potential to optimize clinical outcomes.
Abstract
This review article presents the anatomical and clinical variations in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) arising from the head and body/tail regions. It discusses the distinctive risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) formation and assesses various parameters for monitoring VTE and intervention strategies. Pancreaticoduodenectomy is typically performed for tumors in the head region of the pancreas, while distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy is performed for tumors arising from the body or tail of the pancreas. This article also reviews the stratified analysis of VTE risks in PDAC based on tumor origin, aiming to establish valuable VTE risk factor assessment tools and prophylactic anticoagulation strategies. Furthermore, it focuses on PDAC patients with tumors arising from distinct pancreatic anatomical locations to improve quality of life, reduce thrombotic risks, and optimize clinical outcomes.