PANACOTTA is a multicenter randomized controlled trial including patients with symptomatic chronic pancreatitis and a dilated main pancreatic duct to either robot-assisted or open lateral pancreaticojejunostomy. The PANACOTTA trial will assess the post-operative quality of recovery following robot-assisted versus open lateral pancreaticojejunostomy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• At least 18 years old
• Indication for (extended or partial) lateral pancreaticojejunostomy as agreed during multidisciplinary team meeting based on symptomatic chronic pancreatitis (i.e. morphine dependent pain or recurrent acute flares of pancreatitis, at least 3 episodes per year) and a dilated pancreatic duct of ≥ 5 mm, with a non-enlarged pancreatic head < 40 mm
• Confirmed CP, according to the M-ANNHEIM diagnostic Criteria24
• Eligible for both an robot-assisted and open approach
• Obtained written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Suspected or confirmed current pancreatic cancer
• ASA classification ≥ 4
• Other painful conditions aside from CP, with pain difficult to discriminate from CP pain
• Prior pancreatic surgery
• Pregnancy

Patient-blinded up to post-operative day 5.