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

Comparison of three reconstruction techniques performed after pancreaticoduodenectomy: Using external, internal, or no stent

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is the most frequent cause of morbimortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy, but the best technique to use to prevent its development is unclear. The choice of drainage method external duct stent (EDS), internal duct stent (IDS), or non-ductal stent (NDS) is also controversial.

AIM

To compare the three groups (EDS, IDS and NDS), analyzing the patient characteristics, perioperative examinations and survival.

METHODS

Patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and pancreaticojejunostomy between 2012 and 2020, were divided into the EDS, IDS and NDS groups.

RESULTS

Of the 244 patients included, 129 were in the EDS group, 71 in the IDS group, and 44 in the NDS group. Except for preoperative pancreatitis in the NDS patients, comorbidities were similar among the groups. Patients in the NDS group had a high caliber of the Wirsung duct and frequently presented with a hard pancreas (P < 0.001). A lower rate of grade C POPF was observed in the EDS (1.6%) compared to the NDS (9.1%) and IDS group (14.1%) (P = 0.009). The groups showed similar findings for delayed gastric emptying, postoperative hemorrhage, reoperation, and 5-year survivals. Ninety-day mortality rate was significantly higher in the IDS group (5.6%) compared to the EDS (1.6%) and NDS (4.5%) groups (P = 0.046). Multivariate analysis showed that the use of EDS was a protective factor for grade B/C POPF (P = 0.034), and 90-day mortality (P = 0.018). Additionally, a Wirsung duct diameter < 3 mm was the only risk factor for grade B/C POPF (P = 0.001), and 90-day mortality (P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

The use of the EDS was a protective factor for grade B/C POPF and 90-day mortality, and the Wirsung duct < 3 mm was a risk factor for grade B/C POPF and 90-day mortality.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and external Wirsung stenting: Our outcomes in 80 cases

INTRODUCTION

There is controversy regarding the ideal pancreaticojejunostomy technique after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Many authors consider the external Wirsung stenting technique to be associated with a low incidence of fistula, morbidity and mortality. We analyse our experience with this technique.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the morbidity and mortality of a series of 80 consecutive patients who had been treated surgically over a 6.5-year period for pancreatic head or periampullary tumors, performing pancreaticoduodenectomy and pancreaticojejunostomy with external Wirsung duct stenting.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 68.3 ± 9 years, and the resectability rate was 78%. The texture of the pancreas was soft in 51.2% of patients and hard in 48.8%. Pylorus-preserving resection was performed in 43.8%. Adenocarcinoma was the most frequent tumor (68.8%), and R0 was confirmed in 70% of patients. Biochemical fistula was observed in 11.2%, pancreatic fistula grade B in 12.5% and C in 2.5%, whereas the abdominal reoperation rate was 10%. Median postoperative hospital stay was 16 days, and postoperative and 90-day mortality was 2.5%. Delayed gastric emptying was observed in 36.3% of patients, de novo diabetes in 12.5%, and exocrine insufficiency in 3. Patient survival rates after 1, 3 and 5 years were 80.2%, 53.6% and 19.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our low rates of postoperative complications and mortality using external Wirsung duct stenting coincides with other more numerous recent series, it is necessary to perform a comparative analysis with other techniques, including more cases, to choose the best reconstruction technique after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Portal Annular Pancreas With Common Hepatic Artery Trajectory Abnormality: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

ABSTRACT

Portal annular pancreas (PAP) is a rare congenital pancreatic anomaly, in which the uncinate process of the pancreas fuses to the body of pancreas behind the portal vein. Here, we report a case of PAP with common hepatic arterial anomaly, which was identified during surgery. A 57-year-old man who had branch type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm in the head of the pancreas developed a nodule in the cystic lesion. We planned pylorus preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. The common hepatic artery from the celiac artery passing behind the portal vein was revealed in preoperative examinations. During surgery, we discovered that the uncinate process of the pancreas was fused with the body of the pancreas behind the portal vein. We divided the pancreas at the anterior and posterior of the portal vein. The main pancreatic duct was present in the anterior pancreatic stump. We performed pancreaticojejunostomy in the anterior stump and closed the posterior stump by interrupted suture. Forty-four surgical cases of PAP have been reported in the English medical literature. There are few previous reports of PAP which involved an arterial anomaly. Clinicians should consider PAP preoperatively to ensure that the surgeon can appropriately plan pancreatic resection to avoid postoperative complications.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and external Wirsung stenting: our outcomes in 80 cases

INTRODUCTION

There is controversy regarding the ideal pancreaticojejunostomy technique after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Many authors consider the external Wirsung stenting technique to be associated with a low incidence of fistula, morbidity and mortality. We analyse our experience with this technique.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the morbidity and mortality of a series of 80 consecutive patients who had been treated surgically over a 6.5-year period for pancreatic head or periampullary tumors, performing pancreaticoduodenectomy and pancreaticojejunostomy with external Wirsung duct stenting.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 68.3 ± 9 years, and the resectability rate was 78%. The texture of the pancreas was soft in 51.2% of patients and hard in 48.8%. Pylorus-preserving resection was performed in 43.8%. Adenocarcinoma was the most frequent tumor (68.8%), and R0 was confirmed in 70% of patients. Biochemical fistula was observed in 11.2%, pancreatic fistula grade B in 12.5% and C in 2.5%, whereas the abdominal reoperation rate was 10%. Median postoperative hospital stay was 16 days, and postoperative and 90-day mortality was 2.5%. Delayed gastric emptying was observed in 36.3% of patients, de novo diabetes in 12.5%, and exocrine insufficiency in 3. Patient survival rates after 1, 3 and 5 years were 80.2, 53.6 and 19.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our low rates of postoperative complications and mortality using external Wirsung duct stenting coincides with other more numerous recent series, it is necessary to perform a comparative analysis with other techniques, including more cases, to choose the best reconstruction technique after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Clinical Impact of Preoperative Cholangitis after Biliary Drainage in Patients who Undergo Pancreaticoduodenectomy on Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula

The objective of this study was to examine whether the development of cholangitis after preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) can increase the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). The study population included 185 consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy from April 2006 to March 2011. All patients were divided into two groups, which consisted of a “no PBD” group (73 patients) and a PBD group (112 patients). Moreover, the PBD group was divided into a “cholangitis” group (21 patients) and a “no cholangitis” group (91 patients). Clinical background, clinical outcome, and postoperative complications were compared between groups. All patients received prophylactic antibiotics using cefmetazole until 1 or 2 days postoperatively. There was no difference between noncholangitis and non-PBD groups except the frequency of overall POPF. Clinically relevant POPF and drain infection occurred in the cholangitis group significantly more than in the noncholangitis group ( P < 0.05). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that development of preoperative cholangitis after preoperative biliary drainage and small pancreatic duct (less than 3 mm diameter) were independent risk factors for clinically relevant POPF. The frequency of clinically relevant POPF was 8 per cent (eight of 99) in patients without two risk factors, 19 per cent (15 of 80) in patients with one risk factor, and 50 per cent (three of six) in patients with both risk factors. The development of preoperative cholangitis after PBD was closely associated with the development of clinically relevant POPF under the limited use of prophylactic antibiotics.

Dual-center randomized clinical trial exploring the optimal duration of antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy following biliary drainage

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this dual-center randomized controlled trial was to determine the optimal duration of antimicrobial prophylaxis in patients treated with pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) who underwent preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) but were without cholangitis.

BACKGROUND

Some reports showed that PBD in patients undergoing pancreatectomy increased the rate of perioperative complications. However, no clinical trial has evaluated the optimal duration of antimicrobial prophylaxis with a focus on patients who underwent PD following PBD.

METHODS

A total of 82 patients who underwent PD between March 2012 and December 2016 were randomly assigned to either a 1-day group (n = 40), in which cefozopran (CZOP) as antimicrobial prophylaxis was given only on the day of surgery, or a 5-day group (n = 42), in which CZOP was given for 5 consecutive days beginning on the day of surgery. We evaluated the incidence of infectious and other complications after PD.

RESULTS

Outcomes were significantly better in the 1-day group compared with the 5-day group (P < 0.05) in terms of the incidence of overall infectious complications (15% vs 36%, respectively), intra-abdominal abscess (3% vs 21%, respectively), clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (8% vs 24%, respectively), and Clavien-Dindo grade III-V complications (10% vs 31%, respectively). Duration of postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the 1-day group (10 days vs 15 days, P = 0.018). Anaerobic bacteria and methicillin-resistant cocci were isolated from the drainage fluid only among patients in the 5-day group.

CONCLUSION

Single-day prophylactic use of CZOP is appropriate for patients who undergo PD following PBD without preoperative cholangitis.

Does modified Blumgart anastomosis without intra-pancreatic ductal stenting reduce post-operative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticojejunostomy?

BACKGROUND

Post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is one of the most common and serious complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The aim of this study is to retrospectively compare clinically relevant (CR) POPF and other complications after pacreaticojejunostomy (PJ) after modified Kakita (m-Kakita) or modified Blumgart (m-Blumgart) anastomoses without stenting in a single institution.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-eight patients underwent PJ using m-Kakita anastomoses (two interrupted penetrating sutures) between January 2009 and December 2011. One hundred eighteen patients underwent m-Blumgart anastomoses (two transpancreatic/jejunal seromuscular sutures to cover the pancreatic stump with jejunal serosa) between January 2014 and December 2015. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and post-operative mortality and morbidity were retrospectively compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in demographics or clinical characteristics between the two groups except operative time. A significantly lower rate of CR-POPF was found in the m-Blumgart group relative to the m-Kakita group (10% vs. 19%, p = 0.038). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that the m-Blumgart anastomosis and fistula risk category (Negligible, Low) were independently protective against CR-POPF (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This retrospective single-center study demonstrated that the modified Blumgart method without pancreatic duct stenting was associated with a lower rate of CR-POPF.

Modified Blumgart anastomosis with the "complete packing method" reduces the incidence of pancreatic fistula and complications after resection of the head of the pancreas

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) and its complications remain problems. This study evaluated combination treatment with modified Blumgart anastomosis and an original infection control method (complete packing method) following pancreatic head resection.

METHODS

This study included 374 consecutive patients who underwent pancreatic head resection: 103 patients underwent Cattell-Warren anastomosis (CWA); 170 patients underwent modified Kakita anastomosis (KA); and 101 patients underwent modified Blumgart anastomosis with the complete packing method (BAC). The outcomes of the KA and BAC groups were compared statistically.

RESULTS

The POPF rate was significantly lower in the BAC group than in the KA group (28.8% vs 2.97%; p < 0.01). The overall postoperative complication rate, including SSI and postoperative hemorrhage, was significantly lower in the BAC group.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of modified Blumgart anastomosis and the complete packing method is a simple and useful method for reducing the incidence of POPF and postoperative complications.

Are Internal or External Pancreatic Duct Stents the Preferred Choice for Patients Undergoing Pancreaticoduodenectomy? A Meta-Analysis

The technique of pancreatic duct stenting during pancreatic anastomosis can markedly reduce the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (PF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The method of drainage includes using either an external or an internal stent; the meta-analysis result shows us that there were no differences in the rates of postoperative complications between PD using internal stents and PD using external stents; internal stents may be more favorable during postoperative management of drainage tube. What is more, internal stents could reduce the digestive fluid loss and benefit the digestive function.

Preventive effects of ulinastatin on complications related to pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Consort-prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is one of the most common major complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Ulinastatin is an intrinsic trypsin inhibitor and mainly used to treat acute pancreatitis, chronic recurrent pancreatitis, and acute circulatory failure. The study aims to investigate the efficacy of ulinastatin on pancreatic fistula and other complications after PD. This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in West China Hospital of Sichuan University from December 2012 to December 2014. A total of 106 consecutive patients undergoing PD were randomly assigned to receive ulinastatin or placebo during and after the surgery for 5 days. Baseline clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients were recorded and analyzed. Ninety-two patients including 42 in the ulinastatin group and 50 in the placebo group were available for outcome assessment. The POPF rates were comparable between ulinastatin group (43%) and placebo group (26%), whereas the severe pancreatic fistula rate (grade B + C) was significantly less in ulinastatin group than that in placebo group (7% vs 24%, P = 0.045). For patients with small pancreatic duct diameter (≤3 mm), ulinastatin could significantly reduce the risk of POPF (P = 0.022). Ulinastatin had protective effects for patients undergoing PD on the prevention of severe postoperative pancreatic fistula.

The Tight Adaptation at Pancreatic Anastomosis Without Parenchymal Laceration: An Institutional Experience in Introducing and Modifying the New Procedure

BACKGROUND

Among the types of pancreatic anastomosis used after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), Blumgart type reconstruction has rapidly been distributed for its theoretical reasonableness, including secure tight adaptation of jejunal wall and pancreatic parenchyma without cause of parenchymal laceration. The clinical appropriateness of our modified Blumgart method was demonstrated by comparing to that of Kakita method.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 156 patients underwent elective open PD, reconstructed former 78 patients with the Kakita method, utilizing a full-thickness penetrating suture for tight stump adhesion. The later 78 patients were treated with the modified Blumgart method, which involved clamping the pancreatic parenchymal stump by the jejunal seromuscular layers with horizontal mattress-type penetration sutures. Evaluated variables were the rate of pancreatic fistula (PF) and the length of postoperative hospital stay (POHS).

RESULTS

The rate of ISGPF grade B+C PF was 29/78 (37.2%) in the Kakita group and 16/78 (20.5%) in the Blumgart group (P=0.033). The median POHS for the Kakita group was 23 days, whereas that for the Blumgart group was 16 days (P<0.001), one of the shortest value among Japanese high-volume centers. There was no perioperative intensive hemorrhage or deaths in either group.

CONCLUSION

A unique concept of Blumgart pancreatic anastomosis, i.e., utilizing the jejunum as an interstitial cushion to prevent pancreatic laceration at the knot site, has become realistic through a simple "one step" modification. This technique, also providing flexible handling space at main pancreatic duct anastomosis, should contribute to the improved PF prevention and shortening the POHS.

Comparison of postoperative complications between internal and external pancreatic duct stenting during pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Two types of pancreatic duct stents are used to improve postoperative outcomes of pancreatic anastomosis. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate and compare the postoperative outcomes of patients with internal or external stenting during pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases until the end of December, 2014. Studies comparing outcomes of external vs. internal stent placement in PD were eligible for inclusion. Included literature was extracted and assessed by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

Seven articles were identified for inclusion: three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and four observational clinical studies (OCS). The meta-analyses revealed that use of external stents had advantage on reducing the incidences of pancreatic fistula (PF) in total [odds ratio (OR) =0.69; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.48-0.99; P=0.04], PF in soft pancreas (OR =0.30; 95% CI, 0.16-0.56; P=0.0002) and delayed gastric emptying (DGE) (OR =0.58; 95% CI, 0.38-0.89; P=0.01) compared with internal stents. There were no significant differences in other postoperative outcomes between two stenting methods, including postoperative morbidity (OR =0.93; 95% CI, 0.39-2.23; P=0.88), overall mortality (OR =0.70; 95% CI, 0.22-2.25; P=0.55), and intra-abdominal collections (OR =0.67; 95% CI, 0.26-1.71; P=0.40).

CONCLUSIONS

Based upon this meta-analysis, the use of external pancreatic stents might have potential benefit in reducing the incidence of PF and DGE. Due to the limited number of original studies, more RCTs are needed to further support our result and clarify the issue.

Pancreatic duct stents at pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Several studies suggested that pancreatic stents had some benefit during pancreatoduodenectomy (PD), but others disagree. Whether pancreatic duct stents could prevent postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is still under controversy.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials published before November 2012 were all aggregated, focusing on the evaluation of pancreatic duct stents during PD. Trial data was reviewed and extracted independently by two reviewers. The quality of the including studies was assessed by the Cochrane handbook 5.1.0.

RESULTS

Seven studies were included, with a total of 793 patients. The results showed that compared with nonstents, stents during PD was associated with a significant difference on overall POPF rate (OR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.45-0.95, p = 0.02), POPF grades B and C (OR = 0.45, 95% CI 0.27-0.76, p = 0.003), and hospital stay (MD = -4.28, 95% CI -6.81, -1.75, p = 0.0009). Subgroup analyses showed that the external stent had a significant difference in the incidence of overall POPF (OR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.29-0.73, p = 0.0009), POPF grades B and C (OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.30-0.79, p = 0.003), postoperative morbidity (OR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.42-0.96, p = 0.03), as well as hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Based upon this meta-analysis, there might be potential benefit in reducing POPF thanks to the use of pancreatic duct stents.

Use and results of consensus definitions in pancreatic surgery: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Because of the lack of standardized definitions of complications in gastrointestinal operations, consensus definitions have been developed in recent years. The aim of the current study was to systematically review the available consensus definitions and to report their use, acceptance, and results.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was conducted of the Medline, Cochrane, and ISI Web of Science databases. All articles published until August 2011 and that applied the identified consensus definitions were considered. Inclusion criteria for quantitative analysis were studies with correct usage of the definition and 100 or more patients who were treated after the year 2000.

RESULTS

Seven consensus definitions were identified: postoperative pancreatic fistula, postpancreatectomy hemorrhage, delayed gastric emptying, posthepatectomy liver failure, bile leakage after hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, posthepatectomy hemorrhage, and anastomotic leakage after anterior resection of the rectum. Of 1,637 articles retrieved from the literature search, 59 articles that correctly applied the definitions met the inclusion criteria. Subanalyses were feasible for definitions after pancreatic surgery. According to the consensus definitions, the median complication rates of retrospective studies were 21.9% (postoperative pancreatic fistula, n = 11,244 patients), 5.9% (postpancreatectomy hemorrhage, n = 3,311 patients), and 22.8% (delayed gastric emptying, n = 4,553 patients) after pancreatic resections. The incidences were not substantially different in prospective trials. Validation was performed for all three definitions, demonstrating that the severity grades significantly correlated with the clinical course of the patients.

CONCLUSION

The available consensus definitions were increasingly cited and facilitate scientific comparability and transparency if appropriately applied. The present data update the incidences of major pancreatic complications.

The clinical role of critical pathway implementation for pancreaticoduodenectomy in 179 patients

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

In June 2004, a critical pathway for patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) was introduced. The objective of this study was to determine the clinical value of critical pathway implementation.

METHODS

256 consecutive patients who underwent PD between 2000 and 2010 were divided into 4 groups by date of operation as follows; group A (n = 77), the pre-pathway group; group B (n = 51), the CP implementation group who were managed according to departmental guidelines; group C (n = 78), the group who had no stenting in the reconstruction of PD; and group D (n = 50), the group who had reinforcement of the pancreaticojejunostomy. The success rates of clinical outcomes and post-operative morbidity were compared between each group, year by year and every 50 patients.

RESULTS

The success rates of clinical outcomes, including the timings of nasogastric tube removal, discontinuation of prophylactic anti-microbial agent, drain removal, starting oral intake, and patient discharge, were significantly improved in group B relative to group A, and in group C relative to group B. There were no significant differences in mortality and morbidity between any of the groups. All clinical outcomes reached a plateau at 2-3 years or 100-150 patients' operations after critical pathway implementation.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term use of a critical pathway is associated with improved clinical outcomes. A certain period of time or volume of patients is needed for this improvement in clinical outcomes to reach a plateau, which indicates achieving standardization of peri-operative management.

External stent versus no stent for pancreaticojejunostomy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of an external pancreatic duct stent for reduction of the pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy remains controversial.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Reviews of each trial were conducted and data were extracted. The primary outcome was pancreatic fistula. Statistical pooling used the fixed or random effects model and reported as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with the corresponding 95 % confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

Four RCTs including a total of 416 patients were detected. Methodological quality assessment revealed a better quality of all analyzed trials. Placing an external stent across pancreaticojejunal anastomosis could significantly reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula (RR = 0.57, 95 % CI = 0.41-0.80, P = 0.001, I (2) = 0 %), overall morbidity (RR = 0.79, 95 % CI = 0.64-0.98, P = 0.03), and the length of hospital stay (MD = -3.98 days, 95 % CI = -6.42 to -1.54, P = 0.001, I (2) = 13 %). No significant difference was found in terms of hospital mortality, delayed gastric emptying, operation time, operative blood loss, blood replacement, and reoperation rate.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis provides compelling evidence that the application of an external pancreatic duct stent after pancreaticoduodenectomy can decrease the incidence of pancreatic leakage when compared with no stent. Moreover, the external drainage of pancreatic juice is associated with lower postoperative overall morbidity and shorter hospital stay.

Less morbidity after introduction of a new departmental policy for patients who undergo open distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare morbidity and mortality before and after introduction of a new departmental policy for patients who undergo distal pancreatectomy.

METHODS

We have introduced the use of an ultrasonically-activated device in distal pancreatectomy, an "early removal of drains" policy and perioperative management using a clinical pathway since May 2006. Group A consisted of 52 consecutive patients from 2000 to February 2006. Group B consisted of 57 consecutive patients from May 2006 to 2010.

RESULTS

Although there was no difference in the fluid collection rate within 30 postoperative days (Group A, 44% vs. Group B, 35%), the rates of intra-abdominal abscess (A, 19% vs. B, 4%) and grade 3/4 of the Clavien classification (A, 23% vs. B, 9%) in Group B were significantly lower than in Group A (P < 0.05). Time of drain removal (median 3 days vs. 8 days) and length of in-hospital stay (median 8 days vs. 17 days) in Group B were significantly shorter than in Group A (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The implementation of new departmental guidelines for distal pancreatectomy was closely associated with a low frequency of intra-abdominal abscess and grade 3/4 Clavien score, resulting in a shorter in-hospital stay.

The impact of internal or external transanastomotic pancreatic duct stents following pancreaticojejunostomy. Which one is better? A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The use of pancreatic duct stent to improve postoperative outcomes of pancreatic anastomosis remains a matter of debate, and the value of stenting when performing anastomosis for normal pancreas (soft and duct less than 3 mm) needs further study. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to evaluate the perioperative outcomes of patients with stenting during pancreatic anastomosis and compare the effect of external stent with that of internal stent indirectly.

METHODS

A systematic literature search (EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) was performed to identify studies evaluating external stent or internal stent. Included literature was assessed and extracted by two independent reviewers. A meta-analysis including comparative studies providing data on patients with and without external stenting or internal stenting during pancreaticojejunostomy anastomosis was performed.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles including 1,867 patients were identified for inclusion: five randomized controlled trials study and eight observational clinical studies. Meta-analyses revealed that use of external stent was associated with a significantly decreased risk for pancreatic fistula in total (odds ratio (OR) 0.47; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.31-0.71; P = 0.0004; I (2) = 3 %), pancreatic fistula in normal pancreas(OR 0.5; 95 % CI 0.30-0.82; P = 0.007; I (2) = 5 %), and overall morbidity(OR 0.64; 95 % CI 0.45-0.90; P = 0.01; I (2) = 0 %); however, the meta-analysis showed that there were no significant differences between internal stenting and non-stenting groups as regards perioperative outcomes and that in fact it may increase pancreatic fistula rate in normal pancreas(OR 1.97; 95 % CI 1.05-3.69; P = 0.03; I (2) = 0 %).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this analysis demonstrate a trend toward reduced pancreatic fistula with the use of external pancreatic stents in pancreaticojejunostomy. An internal stent does not impact development of fistula and that in fact it was not useful in a soft pancreas. Our conclusion may be limited to stenting during the duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy anastomosis, and the value of stenting during invagination anastomosis needs further study.

Pancreaticojejunostomy without stent (with video)

There is a high risk of anastomotic leakage following pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy or middle pancreatectomy in patients with a normal soft pancreas because of the abundant exocrine function. Therefore, pancreaticojejunostomy is generally performed using a stent tube (stented method). However, pancreaticojejunostomy with a certain duct-to-mucosa anastomosis does not always require a stent tube even in patients with a normal soft pancreas. We have performed pancreaticojejunostomy with duct-to-mucosa anastomosis without a stent tube (nonstented method) and obtained good results. The objective of this technique is to maintain adequate patency of the anastomosis using a fine atraumatic needle and monofilament suture. The pancreas, including the pancreatic duct, is sharply transected with a scalpel. Any arterial bleeding points on the pancreatic cut end are repaired with fine nonabsorbable sutures. The end-to-side anastomosis between the pancreas and jejunum consists of two layers of sutures. The outer layer is composed of the capsular parenchyma of the pancreas and the jejunal seromuscularis, and the inner layer is composed of the pancreatic duct with an adequate pancreatic parenchyma and the whole jejunal wall. Complete pancreaticojejunostomy using duct-to-mucosa anastomosis does not require a stent tube. This nonstented method can be considered one of the basic procedures for pancreaticojejunostomy because of its safety and reliability.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of outcomes after intraoperative pancreatic duct stent placement during pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic leakage after pancreaticoduodenectomy is often serious. Although some studies have suggested that stenting the anastomosis can reduce the incidence of this complication, the value of stenting in the setting of pancreaticoduodenectomy remains unclear.

METHODS

Studies comparing outcomes of stent versus no stent, and internal versus external stent placement for pancreaticoduodenectomy were eligible for inclusion. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95 per cent confidence intervals were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models.

RESULTS

From a search of the literature published between January 1973 and September 2011, five randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and 11 non-randomized observational clinical studies (OCS) involving 1726 patients were selected for inclusion in this review. Meta-analysis of RCTs revealed that placing a stent in the pancreatic duct did not reduce the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula. External stents had no advantage over internal stents in terms of clinical outcome. Subgroup analyses revealed that use of an external stent significantly reduced the incidence of pancreatic fistula (RCTs: OR 0·42, 0·24 to 0·76, P = 0·004; OCS: OR 0·43, 0·27 to 0·68, P < 0·001), delayed gastric emptying (RCTs: OR 0·41, 0·19 to 0·87, P = 0·02) and postoperative morbidity (RCTs: OR 0·55, 0·34 to 0·89, P = 0·02) compared with no stent.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic duct stenting did not reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula and other complications in pancreaticoduodenectomy compared with no stenting. Although no difference was found between external and internal stents in terms of efficacy, external stents seemed to reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula compared with control.

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.

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.

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.