External drainage of pancreatic duct with a stent to reduce leakage rate of pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a prospective randomized trial

A preoperative predictive scoring system for postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains a leading cause of morbidity after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). In the present study we sought to establish a preoperative scoring system with which to predict this complication.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The clinical records of 387 consecutive patients who underwent PD for periampullary tumor between 2004 and 2009 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were divided into two groups; 279 consecutive patients constituted the study group and the next 108 patients constituted the validation group. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed using preoperative and surgical factors potentially influencing grade B or C POPF in the study group, and a score to predict POPF was constructed. This score was confirmed in the validation group.

RESULTS

In the study group, grade A POPF was recognized in 45 patients (16%), grade B in 98 (35%), and grade C in 5 (2%). A preoperative predictive scoring system for POPF (0-7 points) was constructed using the following 5 factors; main pancreatic duct index <0.25 (2 points), away from portal vein on computed tomography (2 points), disease other than pancreatic cancer (1 point), male (1 point), and intra-abdominal thickness >65 mm (1 point). The nomogram showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808. This scoring system was highly predictive for grade B or C POPF in the validation group (AUC = 0.834).

CONCLUSIONS

The present scoring system satisfactorily predicted the occurrence of POPF and thus will be useful for the perioperative risk management of patients undergoing PD in a high-volume center hospital.

Reconstruction by Pancreaticogastrostomy versus Pancreaticojejunostomy following Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Objectives. The aim of our study was to evaluate and compare the results of pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) and pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Methods. Published data of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the clinically relevant outcomes of PG versus PJ after PD were analyzed. Two reviewers assessed the quality of each trial and collected data independently. The Cochrane Collaboration's RevMan 5.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Proportions were combined, and the odds ratio (OR) with its 95% CI was used as the effect size estimate. Results. Four RCTs published in 1995 or later were included in this meta-analysis, in which 276 patients underwent PG and 277 patients underwent PJ followed PD. In the combined results of PG versus PJ, a significant difference in the morbidity of intra-abdominal complications (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.23–0.49; P < 0.00001) was found, but no significant difference could be found for pancreatic fistula (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.42–1.12 , P = 0.13) mortality (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.42–2.83; P = 0.87), recovery with no complications (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.90–1.78; P = 0.18), biliary fistula (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.22–1.35; P = 0.19), or in delayed gastric emptying (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.33–1.01; P = 0.06). Conclusions. Current RCTs suggest that PG is better than PJ for pancreatic reconstruction after PD.

The methods of reconstruction of pancreatic digestive continuity after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic fistula (PF) is an important factor responsible for the considerable morbidity associated with pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). There have been many techniques proposed for the reconstruction of pancreatic digestive continuity to prevent fistula formation but which is best is still highly debated. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effectiveness of methods of anastomosis after PD.

METHODS

A full literature search was conducted in the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register Databases, Medline, and other resources irrespective of language. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were considered for inclusion. Analyses were carried out using RevMan software.

RESULTS

In all, ten RCTs that included a total of 1,408 patients were included. The meta-analysis showed that the PF, postoperative complications, biliary fistula, mortality, reoperation, and length of hospital stay were not statistically different between the pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) and pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) groups. The PF, postoperative complications, mortality, and reoperation were not statistically different between the duct-to-mucosa PJ and PJ groups. Binding PJ significantly decreased the PF and postoperative complications compared with conventional PJ. The PF, postoperative complications, and mortality were not statistically different between ligation of the pancreatic duct without anastomosis versus PJ.

CONCLUSION

No pancreatic reconstruction technique after PD was found to be applicable to all kinds of pancreatic remnants in our systematic review and meta-analysis. Some new approaches such as binding PJ and modified PG will be considered for study in the future.

Predictive risk factors for clinically relevant pancreatic fistula analyzed in 1,239 patients with pancreaticoduodenectomy: multicenter data collection as a project study of pancreatic surgery by the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

It is important to predict the development of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (grade B/C) in the early period after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This study has been carried out as a project study of the Japanese Society of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery (JSHPBS) to evaluate the predictive factors associated with clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (grade B/C).

METHOD

The data of 1,239 patients from 11 medical institutions who had undergone PD between July 2005 and June 2009 were retrospectively analyzed to review patient characteristics and perioperative and postoperative parameters.

RESULTS

A drain amylase level >4,000 IU/L on postoperative day (POD) 1 was proposed as the cut-off level to predict clinical relevant pancreatic fistula by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of this cut-off level were 62.2, 89.0, and 84.8%, respectively. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male [odds ratio (OR) 1.7, P = 0.039], intraoperative bleeding >1,000 ml (OR 2.5, P = 0.001), soft pancreas (OR 2.7, P = 0.001), and drain amylase level on POD 1 >4,000 IU/L (OR 8.6, P < 0.001) were the significant predictive factors for clinical pancreatic fistula.

CONCLUSION

The four predictive risk factors identified here can provide useful information useful for tailoring postoperative management of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula (grade B/C).

Dual-phase computed tomography for assessment of pancreatic fibrosis and anastomotic failure risk following pancreatoduodenectomy

INTRODUCTION

Delayed or decreased computed tomography (CT) enhancement characteristics in pancreatic fibrosis have been described.

METHODS

A review of 157 consecutive patients with preoperative dual-phase CT between 2004 and 2009 was performed. Pancreatic CT attenuation upstream from the tumor was measured in the pancreatic and hepatic imaging phases. The ratio of the mean CT attenuation value [hepatic to pancreatic phase; late/early (L/E) ratio] and histological grade of pancreatic fibrosis was correlated with the development of a clinically relevant pancreatic anastomotic failure (PAF) and other clinical parameters.

RESULTS

A clinically relevant PAF was observed in 21 patients (13.4%) with morbidity and mortality of 39.5% and 0%, respectively. The PAF group showed maximum enhancement in the pancreatic and washout in the hepatic CT phase, while the no PAF group showed a delayed enhancement pattern. Degree of pancreatic fibrosis and L/E ratio were significantly lower for the PAF group than the no PAF group (0.86 ± 0.14 vs. 1.09 ± 0.24; P < 0.0001 and 21.0 ± 17.9 vs. 40.4 ± 29.8; P < 0.0001); fewer PAF patients showed an atrophic histological pattern (14% vs. 39%; P = 0.046). The L/E ratio was positively correlated with pancreatic fibrosis. Pancreatic fibrosis and L/E ratio increased with larger duct size (P < 0.001), the presence of diabetes (P < 0.05), and the surgeon's assessment of pancreas firmness (P < 0.001). In multivariate analyses, L/E ratio and body mass index were significant predictors for the development of a clinically relevant PAF; a 0.1-U increase of L/E ratio decreased the odds of a PAF by 54%.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic CT enhancement pattern can accurately assess pancreatic fibrosis and is a powerful tool to predict the risk of developing a clinically relevant PAF following PD.

Clinical validation of the ISGPF classification and the risk factors of pancreatic fistula formation following duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy by one surgeon at a single center

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula remains a troublesome complication after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), and many authors have suggested factors that affect pancreatic leakage after PD. The International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF) published a classification, but the new criteria adopted have not been substantially validated. The aims of this study were to validate the ISGPF classification and to analyze the risk factors of pancreatic leakage after duct-to-mucosa pancreatojejunostomy by a single surgeon.

METHODS

All patient data were entered prospectively into a database. The risk factors for pancreatic fistula were analyzed retrospectively for 247 consecutive patients who underwent conventional pancreatoduodenectomy or pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy between June 2005 and March 2009 at the Samsung Medical Center by a single surgeon. Duct-to-mucosa pancreatojejunostomy was performed on all patients. The ISGPF criteria were used to define postoperative pancreatic fistula.

RESULTS

Conventional pancreatoduodenectomy was performed in 84 patients and pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy in 163. Postoperative complications occurred in 144 (58.3%) patients, but there was no postoperative in-hospital mortality. Pancreatic fistula occurred in 105 (42.5%) [grade A, 82 (33.2%); grade B, 9 (3.6%); grade C, 14 (5.7%)]. However, no difference was evident between the no fistula group and the grade A fistula group in terms of clinical findings, including postoperative hospital stays (11 versus 12 days, respectively, p = 0.332). Mean durations of hospital stay in the grade B and C fistula groups were significantly longer than in the no fistula group (21 and 28.5 days, respectively; p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that a soft pancreas and a long operation time (>300 min) were individually associated with pancreatic fistula formation of grades B and C.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the new ISGPF classification appears to be sound in terms of postoperative pancreatic leakage, grade A fistulas lack clinical implications; thus, we are of the opinion that only grade B and C fistulas should be considered in practice. A soft pancreatic texture and an operation time exceeding 300 min were found to be risk factors of grade B and C pancreatic fistulas.

The impact of surgical outcome after pancreaticoduodenectomy in elderly patients

BACKGROUND

The elderly population has increased in many countries. Indications for cancer treatment in elderly patients have expanded, because surgical techniques and medical management have improved remarkably. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) requires high-quality techniques and perioperative management methods. If it is possible for elderly patients to withstand an aggressive surgery, age should not be considered a contraindication for PD. Appropriate preoperative evaluation of elderly patients will lead to their safer management. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the safety of PD in patients older than 75 years and to show the influence of advanced age on the morbidity and mortality associated with this operation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Subjects were 98 patients who underwent PD during the time period from April 2005 to April 2011. During this study, 31 patients were 75 years of age or older (group A), and the other 67 patients were less than 75 years old (group B). Preoperative demographic and clinical data, surgical procedure, pathologic diagnosis, postoperative course and complication details were collected prospectively and they were analyzed in two group.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference between patient groups in terms of gender, comorbidity, preoperative drainage, diagnosis, or laboratory data. Preoperative albumin values were lower in group A (P = 0.04). The mean surgical time in group A was 408.1 ± 73.47 min. Blood loss and blood transfusion were not significantly different between both groups. There was no statistical differences in mortality rate (P = 0.14), morbidity rate (P = 0.43), and mean length of hospital stay (P = 0.22) between both groups. Long-term survival was also no statistically significant difference between the two groups using the log-rank test (P = 0.10).

CONCLUSION

It cannot be ignored that the elderly population is getting larger. We must investigate the management of elderly patients after PD and prepare further for more experiences of PD. If appropriate surgical management is provided to elderly patients, we suggest that PD will lead to no adverse effects after surgery, and PD can be performed safely in elderly patients. We conclude that age should not be a contraindication to PD.

Delayed gastric emptying after pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Antecolic reconstruction after pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (PPPD) has been reported to decrease the incidence of delayed gastric emptying (DGE), which is one of the main postoperative complications. Subtotal stomach-preserving PD (SSPPD), in which duodenum and pylorus ring were removed, was introduced for the purpose of decreasing the incidence of DGE. This prospective randomized control study was performed to assess whether antecolic reconstruction decreases the incidence of DGE compared with retrocolic reconstruction after SSPPD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-six patients were enrolled in this trial between May 2007 and June 2010. Twenty-two and 24 patients were randomized for the retrocolic and antecolic groups, respectively. The primary endpoint was DGE incidence.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of DGE in the retrocolic group was significantly higher than that in the antecolic group (50% versus 20.8%, P=0.0364). In particular, this difference was most striking in the incidence of DGE grade B/C (27.3% versus 4.2%, P=0.0234). Furthermore, patients in the retrocolic group required significantly longer time to full resumption of diet compared with the antecolic group. No significant difference was observed in other postoperative complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Antecolic reconstruction, and not retrocolic reconstruction, decreases DGE incidence after SSPPD.

Does external pancreatic duct stent decrease pancreatic fistula rate after pancreatic resection?: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

The use of an external pancreatic duct stent to prevent fistula formation of pancreatic anastomosis remains a matter of debate. This study is a meta-analysis of the available evidence.

METHODS

Articles published until the end of March 2011 comparing external stenting and non-stenting in pancreatic anastomosis were included. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated using either the fixed effects model or random effects model.

RESULTS

Six articles were identified for inclusion: 3 randomized controlled trials and 3 observational clinical studies. The meta-analysis revealed that the use of an external pancreatic duct stent was associated with a statistically significant reduction in overall postoperative morbidity (OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.39-0.81; p = 0.002), pancreatic fistula (OR 0.34; 95% CI 0.23-0.15; p < 0.001), severity of pancreatic fistula (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.32-1.57; p = 0.04), delayed gastric emptying (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.25-0.80; p = 0.007), and length of hospital stay (WMD -3.95; 95% CI -6.38 to -1.52; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The current literature suggests that the use of an external pancreatic duct stent reduced the leakage rate of pancreatic anastomosis after pancreatic resection. and IAP.

Prevention, evaluation, and treatment of leaks after gastrointestinal surgery : prevention of leaks after pancreatic surgery

Pancreatic fistula remains a frequent and serious complication following pancreatic surgery. The incidence ranges from 10-20% in most series, with pancreatic texture being the most common predictor of the complication. There is little level 1 evidence to support any potential measures to reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula.

[Pancreaticogastrostomy versus pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy: critical analysis of prospective randomised trials]

This is a critical analysis of prospective randomised trials that compare pancreatic reconstruction techniques with the stomach and the intestine, after pancreaticoduodenectomy. A questionnaire with questions from the Evidence Based Medicine Centre of Oxford University (PICO analysis) was used, following the criteria for the evaluation of randomised prospective studies for surgical interventions of the McMaster University in Ontario. It was found that the studies differed in methodological aspects, the most important being the lack of a uniform definition of a pancreatic fistula. The techniques for performing pancreaticogastrostomy and pancreaticojejunostomy were not homogeneous. There were no differences in the percentage of pancreatic fistula in three of these studies; one which modified the pancreaticogastrostomy technique had more favourable results. New comparative studies should use new definitions of the complications of pancreaticoduodenectomy and standardise the pancreatic reconstruction technique.

External pancreatic duct stent decreases pancreatic fistula rate after pancreaticoduodenectomy: prospective multicenter randomized trial

OBJECTIVE

Pancreatic fistula (PF) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The aim of this multicenter prospective randomized trial was to compare the results of PD with an external drainage stent versus no stent.

METHODS

Between 2006 and 2009, 158 patients who underwent PD were randomized intraoperatively to either receive an external stent inserted across the anastomosis to drain the pancreatic duct (n = 77) or no stent (n = 81). The criteria of inclusion were soft pancreas and a diameter of wirsung <3 mm. The primary study end point was PF rate defined as amylase-rich fluid (amylase concentration >3 times the upper limit of normal serum amylase level) collected from the peripancreatic drains after postoperative day 3. CT scan was routinely done on day 7.

RESULTS

The 2 groups were comparable concerning demographic data, underlying pathologies, presenting symptoms, presence of comorbid illness, and proportion of patients with preoperative biliary drainage. Mortality, morbidity, and PF rates were 3.8%, 51.8%, and 34.2%, respectively. Stented group had a significantly lower overall PF (26% vs. 42%; P = 0.034), morbidity (41.5% vs. 61.7%; P = 0.01), and delayed gastric emptying (7.8% vs. 27.2%; P = 0.001) rates compared with nonstented group. Radiologic or surgical intervention for PF was required in 9 patients in the stented group and 12 patients in the nonstented group. There were no significant differences in mortality rate (3.7% vs. 3.9%; P = 0.37) and in hospital stay (22 days vs. 26 days; P = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

External drainage of pancreatic duct with a stent reduced. PF and overall morbidity rates after PD in high risk patients (soft pancreatic texture and a nondilated pancreatic duct).

Current state of surgical management of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is still associated with a poor prognosis and remains—as the fourth leading cause of cancer related mortality—a therapeutic challenge. Overall long-term survival is about 1–5%, and in only 10–20% of pancreatic cancer patients is potentially curative surgery possible, increasing five-year survival rates to approximately 20–25%. Pancreatic surgery is a technically challenging procedure and has significantly changed during the past decades with regard to technical aspects as well as perioperative care. Standardized resections can be carried out with low morbidity and mortality below 5% in high volume institutions. Furthermore, there is growing evidence that also more extended resections including multivisceral approaches, vessel reconstructions or surgery for tumor recurrence can be carried out safely with favorable outcomes. The impact of adjuvant treatment, especially chemotherapy, has increased dramatically within recent years, leading to significantly improved postoperative survival, making pancreatic cancer therapy an interdisciplinary approach to achieve best results.

Side-branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreatic head/uncinate: resection or enucleation?

INTRODUCTION

Side-branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) of the pancreatic head/uncinate are an increasingly common indication for pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). However, enucleation (EN) may be an alternative to PD in selected patients to improve outcomes and preserve pancreatic parenchyma.

AIM

To determine peri-operative outcomes in patients with side-branch IPMN of the pancreatic head/uncinate undergoing EN or PD compared with a cohort of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PA) undergoing PD.

METHODS

Retrospective review of a prospectively collected, combined, academic institutional series from 2005 to 2008. Of 107 pancreatic head/uncinate IPMN, enucleation was performed in 7 (IPMN EN) and PD was performed in 100 (IPMN PD) with 17 of these radiographically amenable to EN (IPMN PD(en) ). During the same time period, 281 patients underwent PD for PA (Control PD).

RESULTS

Operative time was shorter (p<0.05) and blood loss (p<0.05) was less in the IPMN EN group compared with all other groups. Peri-operative mortality and morbidity of all IPMN groups (IPMN EN, IPMN PD(en) ) were similar to the Control PD group. Overall pancreatic fistulae rate in the IPMN EN group was higher than in the IPMN PD(en) and Control PD groups; however, the rate of grade C pancreatic fistulae was the same in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreaticoduodenectomy for side-branch IPMNs can be performed safely. Compared with PD, enucleation for IPMN has less blood loss, shorter operative time and similar morbidity, mortality, hospital length of stay (LOS) and readmission rate. Enucleation should be considered more frequently as an option for patients with unifocal side-branch IPMN.

Stenting versus non-stenting in pancreaticojejunostomy: a prospective study limited to a normal pancreas without fibrosis sorted by using dynamic MRI

OBJECTIVES

We prospectively investigated the efficacy of an external pancreatic duct stent to prevent pancreatic fistula in the nonfibrotic pancreas after pancreaticojejunostomy, in which the degree of pancreatic fibrosis was assessed objectively by using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Among the 67 consecutive patients who underwent pancreatic head resection, 45 patients were judged to have a normal pancreas without fibrosis based on the preoperative assessment of pancreatic fibrosis based on MRI. The patients were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 groups with (n=23) or without (n=22) use of an external pancreatic duct stent in performing a pancreaticojejunostomy.

RESULTS

Pancreatic fistula developed in 8 (34.5%) patients in the stented group: 3 grade A and 5 grade B; whereas in the nonstented group, 9 (40.9%) patients developed pancreatic fistula: 3 grade A and 6 grade B. There were no significant differences in the incidence or severity of pancreatic fistula between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The utility of the external pancreatic duct stent after pancreaticojejunostomy was not found in the nonfibrotic pancreases, which were sorted according to the degree of pancreatic fibrosis using the pancreatic time-signal intensity curve analysis from MRI.

Reinforcement of pancreticojejunostomy using polyglycolic acid mesh and fibrin glue sealant

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether pressure-tight reinforcement of pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) using polyglycolic acid (PGA) mesh and fibrin glue sealant can reduce the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF).

METHODS

The study population included 128 consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between September 2006 and January 2010. Postoperative mortality and morbidity among 50 patients who underwent reinforcement of PJ anastomosis using PGA mesh and fibrin glue were compared with 78 patients (historical controls).

RESULTS

The 2 groups demonstrated no significant differences in frequencies of overall or septic complications, reoperation, or in-hospital death. No significant difference in the frequency of POPF, delayed gastric emptying, or intra-abdominal abscess was found between groups. There was no difference between the 2 groups in the number of necessary interventions, and no bleeding complications or POPF-related mortality occurred. The median length of postoperative in-hospital stay between the 2 groups was similar: 13 days (range, 8-101 days) versus 14 days (range, 8-61 days). Similar findings were observed in a subgroup analysis consisting of patients with a pancreatic duct diameter smaller than 3 mm.

CONCLUSION

This retrospective single-center study showed that reinforcement of PJ anastomosis using PGA mesh and fibrin glue provided no significant benefit in reducing the frequency of POPF.

Postoperative pancreatic fistula

Postoperative pancreatic fistula is an important complication after pancreatic resection. The frequency of its incidence varies between 3% after pancreatic head resections and up to 30% following distal pancreatectomy. In recent years, the international definition of pancreatic fistula has been standardised according to the approach of the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF). Consequently, results from different studies have become comparable and the historically reported fistula rates can be evaluated more critically. The present review summarises the currently available data on incidence, risk factors, fistula-associated complications and management of postoperative pancreatic fistula.

Analysis of clinical trials evaluating complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a new era of pancreatic surgery

Pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying (DGE) are the major postoperative complications of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Pancreatic fistula is life-threatening and DGE, while not life-threatening, prolongs the hospital stay, increasing costs and compromising quality of life. To establish the current consensus of pancreatic fistula and DGE after PD, we analyzed the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) designed to prevent these postoperative complications. Five RCTs comparing PD with pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PpPD) performed for periampullary tumors showed that the two procedures were equally effective with respect to morbidity, mortality, and survival. We reviewed 15 RCTs, 2 prospective nonrandomized studies, and 2 meta-analyses of operative techniques and postoperative management designed to prevent pancreatic fistula. The results of the RCTs designed to prevent pancreatic fistula recommended duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy or one-layer end-to-side pancreaticojejunostomy, equally. We also reviewed five RCTs of operative techniques and postoperative management designed to prevent DGE, which revealed that the antecolic route for duodenojejunostomy significantly reduced the incidence of DGE. Further RCTs to study innovative approaches to prevent postoperative complications after PD are warranted.

Does the type of pancreaticojejunostomy after Whipple alter the leak rate?

Despite the overwhelming limitations that plague the literature surrounding the optimal method of reestablishing pancreatico-enteric continuity following a Whipple operation, it is clear that all successful techniques conform to sound surgical principles. These principles include a water-tight and tension-free anastomosis, preservation of adequate blood supply for both organs involved in the anastomosis, and minimal trauma to the pancreas gland. Although surgeon experience, gland texture, and pancreatic duct size are clearly the dominate risk factors from a long list of variables associated with pancreatic leaks following pancreatoduodenectomy, these are nonmodifiable covariates. Although the plethora of current literature cannot provide a single definitive technical solution for restoring pancreatico-enteric continuity, a small number of well-designed RCTs support the use of transanastomotic external stenting for high-risk pancreatic glands and an end-to-side invaginated pancreaticojejunostomy. The truth remains that an individual surgeon's mastery of a specific anastomotic technique, in conjunction with a large personal experience, is likely to be the best predictor of a low pancreas leak rate following pancreatoduodenectomy.

Pancreatic anastomotic failure rate after pancreaticoduodenectomy decreases with microsurgery

BACKGROUND

We have observed that leakage from pancreaticojejunostomy is reduced when a surgical microscope is used to construct the pancreaticojejunostomy during pancreaticoduodenectomy. To validate our hypothesis that better vision improves the technical performance of pancreaticojejunostomy, we limited inclusion criteria to those patients at high risk for leak, performed more cases, and used the grading system of the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

From 1988 through 2008, 507 consecutive pancreaticoduodenectomies were performed with pancreaticojejunostomy. A subset of 283 patients at risk for leak had a main pancreatic duct (MPD) ≤3 mm at the surgical margin. Pancreaticojejunostomy was completed with surgical loupes (n = 135) or surgical microscope (n = 148). Incidence of pancreaticojejunostomy leak and delayed gastric emptying was determined using a Web-based calculator for the severity grading scale of the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery.

RESULTS

Within the 507 pancreaticoduodenectomies, the clinically relevant pancreaticojejunostomy leak for those with an MPD >3 mm (n = 224) was 4%, and with an MPD ≤3 mm (n = 283) it was 16% (p < 0.0001). For these 283 high-risk patients, outcomes were worse in the loupes versus microscope group, ie, clinically relevant pancreaticojejunostomy leak (21% versus 11%; p = 0.021), pancreas-related complications (31% versus 19%; p = 0.018), clinically relevant delayed gastric emptying (19% versus 9%; p = 0.016), and hospital length of stay (12.9 versus 9.5 days; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a subset of pancreaticoduodenectomy patients at high risk for pancreaticojejunostomy leak, the increased visual acuity of the surgical microscope reduced clinically relevant pancreatic anastomotic failure, delayed gastric emptying, and hospital length of stay.

The bridge stent technique for salvage of pancreaticojejunal anastomotic dehiscence

OBJECTIVES

Although infrequent, Grade C postoperative pancreatic fistulae (POPF) following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) are morbid and potentially lethal. Traditional management of a disrupted pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) anastomosis consists of either wide external drainage or completion pancreatectomy. The aim of this study is to describe an alternative management approach to PJ dehiscence after PD.

METHODS

A bridge stent technique is employed in the setting of a disrupted PJ anastomosis. Upon re-exploration, a 5-Fr or 8-Fr silastic feeding tube stent is placed across a gap between the jejunal enterotomy and the pancreatic duct, and secured with an absorbable suture at both ends. Depending upon the degree of local inflammation, this may be externalized by coursing the stent downstream through the pancreaticobiliary drainage limb in a Witzel fashion.

RESULTS

Over 8 years and 357 PDs with duct-to-mucosa PJ reconstruction, seven ISGPF (International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula) Grade C fistulae occurred (2%). Two patients ultimately died secondary to POPF (neither anastomosis was dehisced). The described technique was used in the other five patients, all of whom had evidence of a dehisced PJ anastomosis. All originally had at least two or three recognized risk factors for POPF development (high-risk pathology, soft gland, duct diameter ≤ 3 mm, estimated blood loss ≥ 1000 ml). All patients survived this complication and were discharged from hospital. There have been no longterm external fistulae, nor any recognized PJ strictures or remnant atrophy (median follow-up: 10.7 months).

CONCLUSIONS

In the context of a dehisced pancreaticojejunal anastomosis, the bridge stent technique is a safe and effective method of management that contributes to diminished mortality and helps to salvage pancreatic function.

Binding versus conventional pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a case-matched study

BACKGROUND

Postoperative morbidity of pancreaticoduodenectomy remains high and is mainly related to postoperative pancreatic fistula. Peng et al. (J Gastrointest Surg 2003;7:898-900; Am J Surg 2002;183:283-285; Ann Surg 2007;245:692-298) recently described binding pancreaticojejunostomy and reported a zero percent rate of pancreatic fistula. The aim of this study was to compare postoperative outcome of binding pancreaticojejunostomy and conventional pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

Between June 2006 and June 2008, a case-control study was conducted, including all patients with binding pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy. These patients were matched with similar patients with conventional pancreaticojejunostomy. Matching criteria were as follows: age, body mass index, pancreatic texture, and pancreatic main duct size. Postoperative mortality and morbidity were analyzed. Postoperative pancreatic fistula was defined according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients with binding pancreaticojejunostomy and 25 with conventional pancreaticojejunostomy were included. There was no difference concerning the rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula, but median delay for healing of postoperative pancreatic fistula was longer in the binding pancreaticojejunostomy group (29 vs. 9 days, p = 0.003). Postpancreatectomy hemorrhage was more frequent in the binding pancreaticojejunostomy group (6/22 vs. 0/25, p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

Results of this study showed that binding pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy was not associated with lower postoperative pancreatic fistula and moreover seems to increase postpancreatectomy hemorrhage.

How do we predict the clinically relevant pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy?--an analysis in 244 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

The most important problem in pancreatic fistula is whether one can distinguish clinical pancreatic fistula, grade B + C fistula by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF), from transient pancreatic fistula (grade A), in the early period after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). It remains unclear what predictive risk factors can precisely predict which clinical relevant or transient pancreatic fistula when diagnosed pancreatic fistula on POD3 by ISGPF criteria.

METHODS

We analyzed the predictive factors of clinical pancreatic fistula by logistic regression analysis in 244 consecutive patients who underwent PD. Pancreatic fistula was classified into three categories by ISGPF.

RESULTS

The rate of pancreatic fistula was 69 of 244 consecutive patients (28%) who underwent PD. Of these, 47 (19%) had grade A by ISGPF criteria, 17 patients (7.0%) had grade B, and five patients (2.0%) had grade C. The independent risk factor of incidence of pancreatic fistula is soft pancreatic parenchyma. However, soft pancreatic parenchyma did not predict underlying clinically relevant pancreatic fistula. The independent predictive factors of clinically relevant pancreatic fistula were serum albumin level <or=3.0 g/dl on postoperative day (POD) 4 and leukocyte counts >9,800 mm(-3) on POD 4. Positive predictive value of the combination of two predictive factors for clinical relevant pancreatic fistula was 88%.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of two factors on POD4, serum albumin level <or=3.0 g/dl and leukocyte counts >9,800 mm(-3), is predictive of clinical relevant pancreatic fistula when diagnosed pancreatic fistula on POD 3 by ISGPF criteria.

Impact of duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy with external drainage of the pancreatic duct after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

A variety of different techniques are established for the management of the pancreatic remnant after partial pancreaticoduodenectomy. Although pancreaticojejunostomy is one of the most favored methods, technical details are still under discussion. We report about a series of duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomies with total external drainage of the pancreatic duct.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1998 and 2007 257 patients underwent surgical therapy for malignant disease of the pancreas and the periampullary region and for chronic pancreatitis. Of these, 153 partial pancreaticoduodenectomies (85 pylorus preserving resections and 68 Whipple's procedures) were performed. In all of these cases, the pancreatic remnant was drained by a duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy with external drainage of the pancreatic duct. Presence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (PPF) was defined according to the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF).

RESULTS

Postoperative mortality was 1.9%. The incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (PPF) was 19.6% according to the ISGPF criteria. Only one patient required re-laparotomy for complications caused by PPF. Patients with PPF had a significantly longer operation time (7.3 h versus 6.6 h; P=0.041). Incidence of PPF was not influenced by histology. In all cases the fistulas resolved under conservative treatment.

CONCLUSION

Duct-to-mucosa PJ with external drainage is a safe procedure to enteralize the pancreatic stump after partial pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Does internal stenting of the pancreaticojejunostomy improve outcomes after pancreatoduodenectomy? A prospective study

AIM

This study's aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of using an internal stent when fashioning a duct-to-mucosa pancreatojejunostomy on preventing pancreatic fistula formation, as well as on the overall outcome for patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2000 and December 2008, 82 consecutive patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy in an isolated jejunal loop, either with or without the aid of an internal stent. The allocation of the patients into group A (n = 41, stented anastomosis) and group B (n = 1, unstented anastomosis) was performed in a strictly alternating way. No statistically significant differences were identified between the two groups regarding age, sex, operative time, intraoperative pathological findings, and comorbidities. The two groups were compared regarding the rate of pancreatic fistula formation, postoperative complications, and hospital stay.

RESULTS

In group A, pancreatic fistula formation rate was 4.9%; overall morbidity reached 30%; and hospital stay duration was 13 +/-4 days. In group B, pancreatic fistula formation rate was 2.4%; overall morbidity was 26%; and hospital stay duration extended to 14 +/- 5. According to Clavien's classification, the severity of surgical complications was designated as follows: for group A, 56% of the complications were allocated as grade I, 38% grade II, 4% grade III, 2.5% grade IV, and 0% grade V. The relative values for group B were 53%, 42%, 3%, 2%, and 0%, respectively. In six group A patients (14.7%), the internal stent was found stuck in the pancreatic stump, causing severe back pain requiring analgesic treatment with opioids for four of them. In group B, four patients (9.7%) complained of mild back pain, none of which required regular treatment. No mortalities were recorded in both groups. No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups regarding fistula formation and severity of complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Internal stenting of a duct-to-mucosa pancreatojejunostomy does not diminish the rate of pancreatic fistula formation or alter overall patient's outcome.

Do transanastomotic pancreatic ductal stents after pancreatic resections improve outcomes?

OBJECTIVES

Despite strategies aimed at reducing a postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreatectomies, the overall incidence remains unchanged. One such procedure, until now incompletely explored, is transanastomotic pancreatic (TAP) ductal stenting.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from 1983-2008 to determine if TAP ductal stents provide any benefit and, if so, in which clinical scenarios they can be recommended.

RESULTS

Stents can be internal or external, intraoperative only, or temporary (several days). One randomized trial on internal stents across pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) suggested a higher POPF rate in the stented group. One nonrandomized study using an internal stent for pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) revealed a 0% POPF rate. Results from studies where external stents were used across PJ/PG reported a lower incidence of POPF. No statistically significant difference was reported in a POPF incidence when internal stents were compared with externalized stents. Available data suggest improved outcomes of pancreatoenteric anastomosis when TAP ductal stent is inserted in small ducts (< or =3 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient evidence to support or refute improved outcomes after TAP ductal stent insertion in patients with PJ/PG with small ducts (< or =3 mm) or soft pancreata. More evidence of benefit is needed before use of external stents can be recommended.

Experimental study of pancreaticojejunostomy completed using anastomotic chains

The most difficult, time-consuming, and complication-prone step in pancreaticoduodenectomy is the pancreaticojejunostomy step. The largest disadvantage of this kind of anastomosis is the high incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage. Once pancreatic leakage occurs, the patient death rate can be very high. The aim of this study was to design a pancreaticojejunostomy procedure using anastomotic chains, which results in the cut end of the jejunum being attached to the pancreatic stump without suturing, and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this procedure in domestic pigs. The pancreaticojejunal anastomotic chains had the following structures: the chains consisted of two braceletlike chains made of titanium, named chain A and chain B. The function of chain A was to attach the free jejunal end onto the pancreatic stump, whereas the function of chain B was to tighten the contact between the jejunal wall and the surface of the pancreatic stump to eliminate gaps between the two structures and ensure tightness that is sufficient to guarantee that there is no leakage of jejunal fluid or pancreatic juice. The following procedure was used to assess the safety and efficacy of the procedure: pancreaticojejunostomies were performed on ten domestic pigs using anastomotic chains. The time required to complete the pancreaticojejunal anastomoses, the pressure tolerance of the pancreaticojejunal anastomoses, the pig death rate, and the histopathological examinations of the pancreaticojejunostomy tissues were recorded. The average time required to complete the pancreaticojejunal anastomosis procedure was 13+/-2 min. The observed tolerance pressure of the pancreaticojejunal anastomoses was more than 90 mm H(2)O. All ten domestic pigs that underwent operations were still alive four weeks after the operations. Pathological examinations showed that the anastomotic surfaces were completely healed, and the pancreatic cutting surfaces were primarily epithelialized. In conclusion, the use of anastomotic chains in pancreaticojejunostomy procedures results in a decrease in or elimination of pancreatic leakage. In addition, the procedure is simple to perform, is not time-intensive, and appears to be safe in a pig model.

A prospective randomized controlled trial of internal versus external drainage with pancreaticojejunostomy for pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

A stent often is placed across the pancreaticojejunostomy. However, there is no report compared between internal drainage and external drainage.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective randomized trial (NCT00628186 registered at http://ClinicalTrials.gov) with 100 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and we compared the effects on postoperative course.

RESULTS

The incidence of pancreatic fistula according to the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula criteria was not different (external, 20%; vs internal, 26%), and the incidence of the other complications was similar between stent types. The median postoperative hospital stay was 21 days (range, 8-163 d) in the internal drainage group, which was shorter than the median stay of 24 days (range, 21-88 d) in the external drainage group (P = .016).

CONCLUSIONS

Both internal drainage and external drainage were safety devices for pancreaticojejunostomy. Internal drainage simplifies postoperative managements and it might shorten postoperative stay for pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Prospective randomized pilot trial comparing closed suction drainage and gravity drainage of the pancreatic duct in pancreaticojejunostomy

BACKGROUND

Pancreaticojejunal anastomotic leakage remains a major complication after pancreatoduodenectomy, and various means of preventing pancreatic leakage have been studied over the past few decades. The purpose of this study was to determine whether closed suction drainage provided a better option than gravity drainage in pancreaticojejunostomy.

METHODS

Between 2004 and 2006, a total of 110 patients who underwent pancreaticojejunostomy at our institute were enrolled in this prospective randomized pilot study. Fifty-five patients were allocated to the closed suction drainage (CD) group and 55 to the gravity drainage (GD) group. In each patient a polyethylene pediatric feeding tube was inserted into the remnant pancreatic duct across a duct-to-mucosa type pancreaticojejunostomy and totally externalized. The tube was then connected to the aspiration bag of a Jackson-Pratt drain to generate negative pressure or to a bile bag for natural drainage. Pancreatic fistulas were defined and graded as A, B, or C according to the international study group for pancreatic fistulas (ISGPF) criteria.

RESULTS

No differences were found between the GD and CD groups in age, sex distribution, or diagnosis. A pancreatic fistula occurred in 24 patients (43.6%) in the GD group and in 14 (25.5%) in the CD group (P = 0.045). In the GD group, grade B and C fistula occurred in 6 patients (10.9%), whereas in the CD group, this occurred in 5 patients (9.1%).

CONCLUSION

In this study, temporary external drainage of the pancreatic duct with closed suction drainage significantly reduced the incidence of grade A pancreatic fistula. A follow-up randomized prospective multicenter study has been initiated.

Development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) after pancreaticoduodenectomy: proposal of a postoperative NAFLD scoring system

BACKGROUND

The main etiology of NAFLD and NASH after pancreatic resection is still unclear, and the therapeutic strategy has yet to be established. The focus of this review is how predict and prevent NAFLD/NASH after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

From April 2005 to October 2008, 54 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy in our institution were enrolled in this study. From the pre-, intra- and postoperative risk factors, we identified the most influential risk factors of postoperative NAFLD by uni- and multivariate analyses. Moreover, a postoperative NAFLD scoring system was proposed based on these risk factors.

RESULTS

The incidence of postoperative NAFLD was 37.0% (20/54). Of these, 10% (2/20) of patients were diagnosed as having NASH by percutaneous liver biopsy. By multivariate analysis, pancreatic adenocarcinoma (p < 0.05), pancreatic resection line (p < 0.01) and postoperative diarrhea (p < 0.01) were identified as the most influential factors concerning postoperative NAFLD. Based on these results, we proposed a postoperative NAFLD scoring system (0-10) and evaluated the correlation between the score and decreasing rates of CT values, revealing a significant correlation (r = 0.829 p < 0.001). The prevalence of postoperative NAFLD in the patients with our scores of 0-3, 4-6 and 7-10 points was 0 (0/22), 35 (6/17) and 93% (14/15), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, NAFLD develops frequently in patients who undergo PD, and some patients even progress to NASH. A postoperative NAFLD scoring system makes it possible to predict the occurrence of NAFLD after PD, and aggressive nutrition support is needed for patients with high scores.

Risk factors for postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy: the significance of the ratio of the main pancreatic duct to the pancreas body as a predictor of leakage

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is a severe and frequent complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The aim of this study was to identify an independent predictor of POPF and to assess the efficacy of preoperative multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) images as an indicator for POPF.

METHODS

A total of 122 patients who underwent PD with an end-to-side, duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy between January 2005 and May 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. The diameter of the main pancreatic duct (MPD), the diameter of the short axis of the pancreas body, and the ratio of the MPD to the pancreas body (MPD index) were digitally measured based on the curved reformatted images of preoperative MDCT.

RESULTS

Postoperative pancreatic fistula occurred in 33 patients (27%). The operative mortality rate was 3.3% (4 patients). All four patients had grade C POPF. Three died because of hemorrhage from a pseudoaneurysm of the gastroduodenal artery stump, and one died because of sepsis due to major leakage from the pancreaticojejunostomy. In a multivariate analysis, the intraoperative blood loss (/100 ml) [odds ratio (OR), 1.1; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05-1.17] and MPD index (<0.2) (OR 50; 95% CI 6-41) proved to be independent predictors of POPF. In patients with an MPD index of <0.2, the incidence of POPF was 45%, and the mortality rate was 7.5%.

CONCLUSION

The MPD index obtained from preoperative MDCT can be a reliable predictor of POPF after PD.

Application of polyethylene glycolic acid felt with fibrin sealant to prevent postoperative pancreatic fistula in pancreatic surgery

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this nonrandomized retrospective study was to report our new procedures using polyethylene glycolic acid (PGA) felt with fibrin sealant to prevent severe pancreatic fistula in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery.

METHODS

From 2000 to 2008, 54 and 63 patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP), respectively. Of those patients, we applied PGA felt with fibrin sealant to 18 PD patients and 26 DP patients. In PD patients, the PGA felt was wrapped around the pancreatic suture site, while in DP patients, the PGA felt was wrapped around the predictive division site. The pancreaticojejunostomy site in PD patients and the cut stump in DP patients were coated with fibrin sealant. We compared the occurrence rates for severe postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) that occurred after PD or DP both with and without our new procedures.

RESULTS

Before introduction of our procedures, severe POPF developed in 14 of 36 PD patients (39%) and 10 of 37 DP patients (27%). In contrast, after introduction of our procedures, the incidence of POPF was only one in both of 18 PD (6%; P = 0.016) and 26 DP (4%; P = 0.017) patients.

CONCLUSION

In summary, our procedure using PGA felt with fibrin sealant may reduce the risk of severe POPF.

Peng's binding pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a French prospective study

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic fistula (PF) is the single most important complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Recently, a 0% rate of PF was reported using a binding pancreaticojejunostomy with intussusception of the pancreatic stump. The aim of this study was to assess the safety of this new binding pancreaticojejunostomy in condition most susceptible to PF, i.e. soft pancreas and non-dilated main pancreatic duct.

METHODS

Forty-five consecutive patients with soft pancreas and non-dilated main pancreatic duct underwent a binding pancreaticojejunostomy. Post-operative PF was defined according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula.

RESULTS

Four patients (8.9%) developed a PF. In one case, PF developed on post-operative day 3 due to a technical deficiency. In the three other cases, pancreatic fistula developed after the tenth post-operative day; all the patients had local and/or general co-morbidities before PF occurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Binding pancreaticojejunostomy according to Peng is a safe and secure technique that improves the rate of pancreatic fistula, especially in case of soft texture of the pancreas remnant. However, a 0% rate seems to be hard to achieve because other abdominal and general complications are frequent and can lead to secondary leakage of the pancreatic anastomosis.

The pancreatic stump after pancreatoduodenectomy: the "Achille's heel" revisited

Pancreatic fistula, the most dreaded complication of pancreatoduodenectomy occurs with an incidence ranging from 4-30% in literature reports; the incidence varies considerably according to the definition of fistula used. This literature review describes various methods proposed over the last decade to decrease the incidence and severity of pancreatic fistula including techniques of pancreatico-jejunal and pancreatico-gastric anastomoses, deliberate avoidance of pancreatico-enteric anastomosis, and the prophylactic role of somatostatin analogues.

Is a nonstented duct-to-mucosa anastomosis using the modified Kakita method a safe procedure?

OBJECTIVES

After standardization of the perioperative management of pancreaticoduodenectomy, we retrospectively compared results in nonstented pancreaticojejunostomy with external-stented pancreaticojejunostomy.

METHODS

The study population included 129 consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy between 2004 and 2008. The postoperative mortality and morbidity were compared between 51 patients with restrictive use of external stenting (group A) and 78 patients without external stenting (group B). The patient with a pancreatic duct of less than 3 mm in diameter was 31% in group A and 46% in group B.

RESULTS

There were no differences in postoperative morbidity and mortality between the 2 groups. Although the frequency of overall postoperative pancreatic fistula development was significantly higher in group B than in group A (44% vs 27%, P = 0.0004), there was no difference in grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula rate (group A: 5.9% vs group B: 14.1%). The length of in-hospital stay in group B was significantly shorter than group A (13 vs 24 days, P < 0.0001). There were no differences in postoperative morbidity and mortality between subgroups that were consisted of patients with small pancreatic duct diameter.

CONCLUSION

This retrospective single-center study showed that nonstented duct-to-mucosa anastomosis was a safe procedure and was associated with a shortened in-hospital stay.

Toward improving uniformity and standardization in the reporting of pancreatic anastomoses: a new classification system by the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS)

BACKGROUND

To date, there is no uniform and standardized manner of defining pancreatic anastomoses after pancreatic resection.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed to determine the various factors, either related to the pancreatic remnant after pancreatic resection or to types of pancreatoenteric anastomoses that have been shown to influence failure rates of pancreatic anastomoses.

RESULTS

Based on the data obtained, we formulated a new classification that incorporates factors related to the pancreatic remnant, such as pancreatic duct size, length of mobilization, and gland texture, as well as factors related to the pancreatoenteric anastomosis, such as the use of pancreatojejunostomy/pancreatogastrostomy; duct-to-mucosa anastomosis; invagination (dunking) of the remnant into the jejunum or stomach; and the use of a stent (internal or external) across the anastomosis.

CONCLUSION

By creating a standardized classification for recording and reporting of the pancreatoenterostomy, future publications would allow a more objective comparison of outcomes after pancreatic surgery. In addition, use of such a classification might encourage studies evaluating outcomes after specific types of anastomoses in certain clinical situations that could lead to the formulation of best practice guidelines of anastomotic techniques for a particular combination of findings in the pancreatic remnant.