Controversies in neuroendocrine neoplasms: An European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society position statement on the role of surgery of the primary tumour in metastatic small intestinal and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours.
Publisher DOI
PubMed ID
41856794
Abstract
The role of primary tumour resection (PTR) in metastatic small intestinal (SiNETs) and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PanNETs) remains debated. While retrospective studies suggest improved survival and possible reduction of local complications, the evidence is limited by heterogeneity, selection bias, and an absence of prospective validation. Under the auspices of the European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (ENETS) Advisory Board, this position paper summarises current knowledge and expert consensus on the rationale, potential benefits, patient selection, timing, integration with systemic therapies, and future perspectives for PTR. PTR may be considered in selected patients with liver-limited or liver-dominant disease, indolent tumour biology, and good performance status, especially to prevent obstruction, bleeding, or ischaemia, to reduce symptomatic tumour burden, or to facilitate systemic and liver-directed therapies. However, the risks of major surgery, including intestinal and pancreatic resections, with long-term impact on digestion and nutrition, must be carefully considered. Decisions should be made in dedicated multidisciplinary tumour boards. Future directions include incorporation of molecular biomarkers, functional imaging, tumour growth rate, radiomics, and real-world data to refine patient selection. Quality of life and patient-reported outcomes remain underexplored and should be co-primary endpoints in prospective studies. PTR should not currently be regarded as standard of care for all cases but may have a role in carefully selected patients within integrated and individualised management strategies.
Date Issued
2026-03
Publication Type
Article
Subject(s)
Subjects
metastatic NETs
•
multidisciplinary management
•
pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours
•
primary tumour resection
•
small intestinal neuroendocrine tumours
Language(s)
en
Author(s)
Partelli, Stefano | |
Bartsch, Detlef K | |
Falconi, Massimo | |
Grossman, Ashley | |
Knigge, Ulrich | |
Langer, Seppo W | |
Martin, Wendy | |
O'Toole, Dermot | |
Schrader, Joerg | |
Stalberg, Peter | |
Janson, Eva Tiensuu |
Additional Credits
Journal
Journal of Neuroendocrinology
Publisher
Wiley
ISSN
1365-2826
0953-8194
Access(Rights)
restricted