The Role of the Human Microbiome in Patients After Pancreatic Resection.

Rationale: Resection is the only potentially curative option for pancreatic and periampullary cancer, a complex procedure with a high risk of complications of 30% to 73%. Research shows the presence of altered bacterial populations within fecal, pancreatic fluid, bile and jejunal samples of patients after pancreatic resection compared to healthy samples. Moreover, specific gut microbial composition in the pre- and postoperative period were associated with a higher risk of developing complications after pancreatic resection in small studies. Further research on a larger scale is necessary to validate these findings and to evaluate targeted microbiome modifications to improve outcomes in patients after pancreatic resection. Objective: The primary objective of this study is to classify patients that undergo pancreatic resection for presumed pancreatic or periampullary malignancy into high and low risk groups for postoperative complications based on longitudinal microbiome profiles. Study design: Prospective observational cohort study. Study population: 200 adult patients with resectable pancreatic or periampullary presumed (pre)malignancy. Main study parameters/endpoints: The primary endpoint is a composite of postoperative complications including pancreatic fistula, bleeding, gastroenterostomy-, bile- or chyle leakage, delayed gastric emptying, cholangitis, sepsis and organ failure. Nature and extent of the burden and risks associated with participation, benefit and group relatedness: All participants will be offered the standard of care. In addition, rectal swabs, faeces, salivary, bile, blood and tumor samples will be collected at different time points perioperatively. Participating in this study carries no additional risks.