Complex esophageal and pancreatic surgery centralized

The government decided to concentrate complex esophageal and pancreatic surgery in reference centers from now on. UZ Gent is ready to take on its role as reference center.

UZ experts in the field are happy with the decision, as this will benefit the patients. Complex surgery requires a strong, streamlined multidisciplinary approach. As such, teams only executing the procedure a few times a year can never build up the needed experience and expertise. This translates into a higher chance of survival in experienced hospitals.

You can read the full interview with several UZ specialists including CRIG group leader prof. Piet Pattyn (in Dutch) here.