The International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA) World Congress 2014, held in Seoul from March 22^nd to 27^th, brought together eminent speakers and more than 2700 delegates from all over the world to share the most up-to-date research in the field of hepato-biliary, pancreatic and transplant surgery. The comprehensive scientific program, including symposia, keynote lectures, living legend lectures, original research presentations, and video sessions, provided an excellent opportunity for junior surgical trainees and research staff to keep abreast of the most recent developments in our specialties.

Prof. Bassi gave a lecture about drains in pancreatic resections, in the light of a recent multi-institutional randomized trial of drainage versus no drainage after pancreaticoduodenectomy, demonstrating that the omission of drains is associated with a greater postoperative complication rate and hospital mortality. Furthermore, in a meet-the-professor session, Prof. Bassi spoke about the strategies to limit the burden of postoperative complications after pancreatic resections.

Dr. Malleo presented an original research on the incidence of pancreatic cancer during the follow-up of branch-duct IPMNs. The results supported the concept that prophylactic resection of BD-IPMNs (especially when the lesion is located in the pancreatic head) is not warranted, because the 5-year cumulate risk of pancreatic cancer (nearly 2%) equals the 90-day mortality after major resections. 

Dr. Paiella presented a poster showing the feasibility and safety results of irreversible electroporation, a novel ablation technique for advanced pancreatic cancer.

Next IHPBA world congress will take place in San Paolo, Brazil, in 2016.