Objectives: Previous studies that investigated the association between body mass index (BMI) and pancreatectomy outcomes have produced conflicting conclusions. We conducted this meta-analysis to assess the association between them.
Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases up to December 28, 2014. Patients were divided into high-BMI group (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m) and normal-BMI group (BMI < 25 kg/m). Postoperative and intraoperative outcomes were evaluated. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis were performed to evaluate any factors accountable for the heterogeneity. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effect model.
Results: We included 22 studies involving 8994 patients. Patients in the high-BMI group had significantly increased postoperative pancreatic fistula rate (odds ratio [OR],1.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-2.67), delayed gastric emptying rate (OR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.15-2.29), wound infection rate (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.07-1.93), operation time (mean difference [MD],15; 95% CI, 13.40-16.60), blood loss (MD, 270.71; 95% CI, 248.93-292.49), and length of hospital stay (MD, 2.87; 95% CI, 1.51-4.24). For modest heterogeneity in postoperative pancreatic fistula, regional distribution tended to be the contributor.
Conclusions: High BMI not only increased the surgical difficulty but also decreased the surgical safety for pancreatectomy.