Clinical Case

3D Model of Pancreatic Head Adenocarcinoma | Cella Medical Solutions

A 72-year-old male patient presented with obstructive jaundice and was diagnosed with pancreatic head adenocarcinoma involving the superior mesenteric vein (SMV). Due to vascular involvement, the tumour was initially considered unresectable and required neoadjuvant therapy.

To reassess surgical feasibility, the multidisciplinary surgical team—comprising Dr José Ignacio Miota, Dr Antonio Serafín Valero and Dr Belén Conde Inarejos from Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Albacete requested a patient-specific 3D model to accurately evaluate post-treatment vascular involvement.

3D Surgical Planning and Vascular Assessment

The 3D model enabled precise evaluation of tumour volume following neoadjuvant treatment, revealing a slight reduction in tumour contact with the superior mesenteric vein, with no radiological features suggestive of vascular infiltration.

In this context, the model’s intraluminal navigation tool was particularly valuable, allowing detailed analysis of the treatment response and a clear understanding of the tumour’s relationship with surrounding vascular and anatomical structures. This level of detail was critical in redefining the surgical strategy and reassessing resectability with greater confidence.

Surgical Outcome

The General Surgery Department, led by Dr Jesús Cifuentes, successfully performed a pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure), achieving complete tumour resection of a lesion that had previously been considered unresectable.

Thanks to the accuracy of preoperative 3D planning and the efficiency of the surgical approach, the patient experienced a favourable postoperative course and was discharged after just one week of recovery.