Background <p>Solid-pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is a rare tumor with low malignant potential, most commonly occurring in the pancreatic body or tail of young women. Atypical presentations, particularly in male patients and cases involving the pancreatic head, may pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This report highlights surgical management considerations in a patient with inconclusive preoperative findings.</p> Case presentation <p>We report the case of a 37-year-old man with a large lesion initially interpreted as a retroperitoneal mass closely associated with the pancreatic head. Preoperative imaging could not definitively establish the tumor origin. Following multidisciplinary team (MDT) evaluation, a diagnostic resection strategy was adopted. Robot-assisted laparoscopic exploration revealed that the tumor originated from the pancreatic head with an exophytic growth pattern. Local tumor excision combined with limited pancreatic resection was successfully performed while preserving the main pancreatic duct. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of SPN. The patient recovered uneventfully and remained clinically stable at follow-up.</p> Conclusions <p>This case illustrates the clinical decision-making process and surgical strategy selection in an atypical presentation of SPN with preoperative diagnostic uncertainty. The report underscores the potential role of robot-assisted surgery in facilitating precise dissection and parenchyma preservation in complex anatomical settings.</p>