Late Pancreatic Fistula After Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Background: More than 100 years after its conception, the pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) remains a challenging procedure with significant morbidity, often due to a postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). Factors related to patient physiology, tumor anatomy/pathology, and surgeon/surgical technique have been studied, yielding results at times conflicting and difficult to reproduce. We present a case of a late POPF along with a brief review of the current literature.

Case Presentation: The patient is a 55-year-old female with a 20 pack-year smoking history and no history of alcohol abuse, who presented for evaluation of new nausea. Her laboratory tests and computed tomography (CT) imaging were suggestive of biliary obstruction. She was found to have an invasive ampullary adenocarcinoma and subsequently underwent a classic PD. She developed a POPF, managed through a closed suction drain placed intraoperatively. Her course was complicated by the development of an intra-abdominal abscess, managed percutaneously through CT-guided placement of two drains, subsequently removed without issues. She recovered uneventfully until 8 months after the operation, when she presented with abdominal pain and pancreatitis. She was found to have an intra-abdominal collection, again managed percutaneously via CT-guided drainage. This time, the amylase and lipase levels of the drainage fluid were 21,860 and 86,650 U/L, respectively, and cultures were sterile. Upon workup of her pancreatic fistula, a severe stricture at the pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) was identified. She underwent endoscopic placement of a Hobbs stent by the GI service.

Conclusion: Although commonly diagnosed in the days to weeks after a PD, we present a case of a POPF that manifested 8 months after the initial operation in association with a PJ stricture. This case highlights the importance of considering the diagnosis even months after the operation in a patient who presents with symptoms of pancreatitis and/or imaging findings consistent with an intra-abdominal collection.

A Randomized Trial on the Efficacy of Prophylactic Active Drainage in Prevention of Complications after Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine whether prophylactic active drainage decreases morbidity associated with pancreati-coduodenectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted between April 2010 and May 2015 when 160 consecutive patients following elective pancreaticoduodenectomy were randomized intraoperatively to either prophylactic active drainage group or conventional passive drainage group. The main objectives were the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula and the associated clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 82 patients in the active drain group and 78 patients in the passive drain group. The overall pancreatic fistula rate occurred similarly in the two groups (11.0% (9/82) vs 14.1% (11/78), p = 0.360). Grade C pancreatic fistula in active drain group was significantly less than that in passive drain group (0% (0/82) vs 6.4% (5/78), p = 0.026). The mean postoperative hospital stay and parenteral nutrition support time in active drainage group were shorter than those in passive drainage group (12.6 days vs 14.5 days, p = 0.037; 6.9 days vs 8.6 days, p = 0.047, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic active drainage reveals significant reduction in severity of complications associated with pancreatic fistula and might be recommended as an alternative for patients with high risk of developing serious pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Preoperative body mass index-to-prognostic nutritional index ratio predicts pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Estimating or scoring the risk of post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) may help with selection of high-risk patients and individualized patient consent. However, there are no simple and reliable preoperative predictors of POPF used in daily clinical practice.

METHODS

We investigated the utility of body mass index-to-prognostic nutritional index (BMI/PNI) ratio as a preoperative marker to predict the development of POPF in 87 patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of clinical (grade B/C) POPF was 17% (15 of 87 patients). Among various pre-, intra-, and post-operative variables analyzed, higher BMI and lower PNI were identified as independent predictors for POPF by multivariate analysis. We therefore investigated BMI/PNI ratio as a preoperative predictor for POPF. BMI/PNI ratio was significantly higher in patients with POPF than in those without POPF (0.54 vs. 0.45, P=0.0007). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated a fair capability of BMI/PNI ratio to predict the occurrence of POPF (area under the ROC curve 0.781). With a cut-off value of 0.5, the sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of BMI/PNI ratio to predict POPF was 73%, 74%, and 74%, respectively. In particular, when restricted to a subgroup of elderly (≥75 years old) male patients, the sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of BMI/PNI ratio was 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The BMI/PNI ratio is a simple preoperative marker to predict the occurrence of POPF after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Drain management after pancreatic resection: state of the art

BACKGROUND

Placement of intraperitoneal drain (ID) after abdominal surgery is a common practice. Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF), incidence of which ranges from 2% to more than 30%, represents the most common major complication after pancreatic resection. The goal of this paper is to review the state of the art in ID management after pancreatic resection.

METHODS

Data from randomized controlled trials (RCT) are reported together with data from our institution in the period before and after the start of the two reported RCTs.

RESULTS

One thousand five hundred eighty patients underwent surgical resection for pancreatic lesions at our institution from 1990 to 2010. The overall rate of POPF was 23% before and 19.5% after (p = 0.24) the performance of the RCTs. Both postoperative morbidity and average in-hospital stay were higher in the period before the RCTs (13.6 ± 11.4 versus 13.4 ± 10.3 days, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

POPF is a complex and multifactorial complication after pancreatic surgery. On the basis of the present results and review of the RCTs, the value of ID and its management after pancreatic surgery remain unclear.

Persisting ratio of total amylase output in drain fluid can predict postoperative clinical pancreatic fistula

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

A consistent predictor for pancreatic fistula (PF) development in the early period after pancreatic resection is still lacking.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 54 consecutive patients undergoing pancreatic resection were enrolled between June 2007 and April 2010. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP) were performed in 38 and 16 patients, respectively. For the purpose of finding an early predictor for PF development, we investigated drain amylase levels (d-Amy, IU/mL), drain output volume (d-Vol, mL/day) and drain amylase output (Amy-V, IU/day) on postoperative days (POD) 1 and 3. Amy-V was calculated as the product of d-Amy and d-Vol, and was expressed as the sum of values obtained from all drains. In addition, the ratio of d-Amy or Amy-V on POD3 to that on POD1 was calculated as the persisting ratio in each patient.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of clinical PF (International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula Grade B and C) was 16.7%, occurring in 13.1% after PD and 25% after DP. All PF occurred in cases with a remnant pancreas of soft texture. There was no significant difference in d-Amy, d-Vol, or Amy-V on POD1 and POD3 between patients with and without clinical PF. The persisting ratio of Amy-V was significantly lower in patients without clinical PF compared to those with clinical PF (p = 0.029). Furthermore, the persisting ratio of Amy-V was significantly lower in patients with Grade A PF compared to those with Grade B PF (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

The persisting ratio of drain amylase output is a new significant predictive factor for clinical PF development.

Pancreaticojejunostomy versus pancreaticogastrostomy

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

In the majority of reports morbidity after pancreaticoduodenectomy remains high and leakage from the pancreatic stump still accounts for the majority of surgical complications. Many technical modifications of the pancreaticoenteric anastomosis to decrease the pancreatic leakage rate have been suggested.

METHODS

A Medline search for surgical guidelines, prospective randomized controlled trials, systematic meta-analyses, and clinical results was performed with regard to technical aspects of reconstruction, i.e., pancreaticojejunostomy versus pancreaticogastrostomy, after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Here we illustrate the different approaches to reconstruction, with an emphasis on technical aspects and their details.

CONCLUSIONS

Pancreaticojejunostomy appears to be the most widely performed reconstruction, but pancreaticogastrostomy is a reasonable alternative. However, in the analysis of the clinical results it is important to know which specific pancreaticoenteric anastomosis is considered; for example, end-to-end, dunking, invagination of the pancreatic stump, or duct-to-mucosa. It is hoped that collaborative trials will provide high-level data to allow tailoring of the operative technique, depending on the risk factors for pancreatic leakage in any particular patient.

Impact of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Among Patients with Pancreatic Fistula After Gastrectomy for Advanced Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has been widely adopted for patients with advanced gastric cancer; however, the safety of gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy followed by NAC has not yet been evaluated. We retrospectively analyzed the influence of NAC on morbidity and mortality after gastrectomy in patients with advanced gastric cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A series of 364 patients with advanced gastric cancer who underwent gastrectomy without pancreatectomy between January 2008 and December 2010 at eight hospitals registered to the Yokohama Clinical Oncology Group were studied retrospectively. There were 330 patients who underwent surgical treatment immediately after diagnosis (surgery alone group) and 34 patients (NAC group) who first received NAC and then underwent surgical resection.

RESULTS

Although there were no significant differences in the morbidity rate between the two groups, postoperative pancreatic fistula was more often observed in NAC patients than in patients of the group treated with surgery alone [5 cases (14.7%) vs. 11 cases (3.3%); p=0.011]. In the univariate analysis, NAC (p=0.029), bursectomy (p<0.001) and operative bleeding (≥300 ml, p=0.002), were significantly correlated with postoperative pancreatic fistula, and NAC [odds ratio (OR)=4.901, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.455-16.67; p=0.010] and bursectomy (OR=11.2, 95% CI=3.460-37.04; p<0.001) were independent risk factors for postoperative pancreatic fistula by multivariate analysis. The incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula was 40.0% among patients who underwent gastrectomy with bursectomy followed by NAC.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of pancreatic fistula in patients treated with NAC and bursectomy was significantly higher than that in other patients. Bursectomy may be discouraged for the prevention of pancreatic fistula from gastrectomy following NAC.

Clinical trials to reduce pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery-review of randomized controlled trials

Pancreatic fistula is one of severe postoperative complications that occur after pancreatic surgery, such as pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP). Because pancreatic fistula is associated with a higher incidence of life-threatening complications. In order to evaluate procedure or postoperative management to reduce pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery, we summarized some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding pancreaticoenterostomy during PD, pancreatic duct stent during PD, procedure to resect pancreatic parenchyma during DP, and somatostatin and somatostatin analogues after pancreatic surgery. At first, we reviewed nine RCTs to compare pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) with pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) during PD. Next, we reviewed five RCTs, to evaluate the impact of pancreatic duct stent during PD. Regarding DP, we reviewed six RCTs to evaluate appropriate procedure to reduce pancreatic fistula after DP. Finally, we reviewed eight RCTs to evaluate the impact of somatostatin and somatostatin analogues after pancreatic surgery to reduce pancreatic fistula. The best way to prevent pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery remains still controversial. However, several RCTs clarify a useful procedure to reduce in reducing the incidence of pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery. Further RCTs to study innovative approaches remain a high priority for pancreatic surgeons to prevent pancreatic fistula after pancreatic surgery.

Stapler versus scalpel resection followed by hand-sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant for distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

Resections of the pancreatic body and tail reaching to the left of the superior mesenteric vein are defined as distal pancreatectomy. Most distal pancreatectomies are elective treatments for chronic pancreatitis, benign or malignant diseases, and they have high morbidity rates of up to 40%. Pancreatic fistula formation is the main source of postoperative morbidity, associated with numerous further complications. Researchers have proposed several surgical resection and closure techniques of the pancreatic remnant in an attempt to reduce these complications. The two most common techniques are scalpel resection followed by hand-sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant and stapler resection and closure.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the rates of pancreatic fistula in people undergoing distal pancreatectomy using scalpel resection followed by hand-sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant versus stapler resection and closure.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, Biosis and Science Citation Index from database inception to October 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing stapler versus scalpel resection followed by hand-sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant for distal pancreatectomy (irrespective of language or publication status).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and extracted the data. Taking into consideration the clinical heterogeneity between the trials (e.g. different endpoint definitions), we analysed data using a random-effects model with Review Manager (RevMan), calculating risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

In two eligible trials, a total of 381 participants underwent distal pancreatic resection and were randomised to closure of the pancreatic remnant either with stapler (n = 191) or scalpel resection followed by hand-sewn closure (n = 190). One was a single centre pilot RCT and the other was a multicentre blinded RCT. The single centre pilot RCT evaluated 69 participants in five intervention arms (stapler, hand-sewn, fibrin glue, mesh and pancreaticojejunostomy), although we only assessed the stapler and hand-sewn closure groups (14 and 15 participants, respectively). The multicentre RCT had two interventional arms: stapler (n = 177) and hand-sewn closure (n = 175). The rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula was the main outcome, and it occurred in 79 of 190 participants in the hand-sewn group compared to 65 of 191 participants in the stapler group. Neither the individual trials nor the meta-analysis showed a significant difference between resection techniques (RR 0.90; 95% CI 0.55 to 1.45; P = 0.66). In the same way, postoperative mortality and operation time did not differ significantly. The single centre RCT had an unclear risk of bias in the randomisation, allocation and both blinding domains. However, the much larger multicentre RCT had a low risk of bias in all domains. Due to the small number of events and the wide confidence intervals that cannot exclude clinically important benefit or harm with stapler versus hand-sewn closure, there is a serious possibility of imprecision, making the overall quality of evidence moderate.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The quality of evidence is moderate and mainly based on the high weight of the results of one multicentre RCT. Unfortunately, there are no other completed RCTs on this topic except for one relevant ongoing trial. Neither stapler nor scalpel resection followed by hand-sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant for distal pancreatectomy showed any benefit compared to the other method in terms of postoperative pancreatic fistula, overall postoperative mortality or operation time. Currently, the choice of closure is left up to the preference of the individual surgeon and the anatomical characteristics of the patient. Another (non-European) multicentre trial (e.g. with an equality or non-inferiority design) would help to corroborate the findings of this meta-analysis. Future trials assessing novel methods of stump closure should compare them either with stapler or hand-sewn closure as a control group to ensure comparability of results.

Factors related to occurrence and aggravation of pancreatic fistula after radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Pancreatic fistula (PF) and subsequent intra-abdominal abscess is a serious complication after gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The study aims to evaluate amylase concentration of drainage fluid (d-AMY) and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) as the predictive factors related to PF amounting to Clavien-Dindo (CD) grade III.

METHODS

448 patients who underwent gastrectomy for gastric cancer were analyzed. Closed drains were placed in the left subphrenic cavity and/or Winslow's cavity depending on the procedures. The cutoff values of d-AMY and CRP were determined, and their roles as predictive factors for CD grade III PF were evaluated.

RESULTS

PF, diagnosed in 58 patients, was stratified according to the CD classification. Consequently, grade III PF which includes PF-related abscesses was observed in 32 patients. The cutoff value of d-AMY on the first postoperative day for predicting grade III PF was 1949 IU/l. The cutoff value of CRP on the third postoperative day for the same purpose was 20.44 mg/dl. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that d-AMY and CRP were significant predictive factors for grade III PF.

CONCLUSIONS

The d-AMY on the first postoperative day and CRP on the third postoperative day might be useful for predicting CD grade III PF after gastrectomy.

Meta-analysis of pancreaticogastrostomy versus pancreaticojejunostomy on occurrences of postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Pancreatic fistula (PF) is the most common and challenging complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of pancreaticogastrostomy (PG) versus pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) on occurrences of postoperative PF.

METHODS

A systematic literature search in the Medline, EMBASE, OVID, and Cochrane databases was performed to identify all eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Pooled estimates were presented with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

Six RCTs involving 1005 patients met the inclusion criteria. The incidence of PF [odds ratio (OR) 0.58, 95% CI, 0.42-0.81; p = 0.001], intra-abdominal abscess or collections (OR 0.43, 95% CI, 0.28-0.65; p < 0.001), and biliary fistula (OR 0.28, 95% CI, 0.11-0.74; p = 0.01) were found to be significantly lower in the PG group than in the PJ group. There was no significant difference in overall morbidity, other complications, hospital mortality, or length of hospital stay between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The meta-analysis showed that PG following PD represents a safe procedure associated with fewer PFs compared with PJ.

Division of surgeon workload in pancreaticoduodenectomy: striving to decrease post-operative pancreatic fistula

BACKGROUND

Many studies have reported factors affecting pancreatic leakage after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), but there have been few reports on surgeon workload and post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF). This study was conducted to explore whether a surgeon's workload during PD impacts the occurrence of POPF.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed 270 consecutive patients who underwent PD between January 2008 and June 2013 by a single experienced surgeon. These patients were divided into those who underwent PD entirely by a single operator (group 1) and those who received reconstructions by other operators (group 2). Duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy was performed on all patients. The International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula criteria were used to define POPF.

RESULTS

There were 157 patients (58.1%) in group 1 and 113 patients (41.9%) in group 2. The post-operative morbidity rate was comparable between the two groups (55.4% versus 52.2%; P = 0.603), but the clinical pancreatic fistula (grade B/C) rate was significantly different (10.8% versus 2.7%; P = 0.011). The overall post-operative mortality was one patient (0.4%). Significant associations were found between clinical pancreatic fistulas and soft pancreas texture (P = 0.021), preoperative serum albumin level ≤3.5 g/dL (P = 0.012), other pathology besides pancreatic cancer (P = 0.027) and a single-operator procedure (P = 0.019). A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a single operator (odds ratio: 4.2, P = 0.029) was a significant predictive risk factor for clinically relevant POPF.

CONCLUSION

Dividing the surgeon's workload in PD is associated with lower rates of POPF.

A case of annular pancreas accompanied with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm-case report

OBJECTIVES

Annular pancreas is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by pancreatic tissues wrapping completely or incompletely around the descending duodenum. In most patients with annular pancreas, onset occurs in early childhood. Adults with annular pancreas are prone to duodenal ulcers and pancreatitis. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is a type of papillary mucinous secretory epithelial tumor, which originates in the main pancreatic duct and/or branch duct. We report a case of annular pancreas accompanied with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm.

METHODS

A 52-year-old male patient hospitalized due to recurrent upper abdominal pain for one and a half years was enrolled in this study.

RESULTS

One case of annular pancreas accompanied with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm which manifested as recurrent chronic pancreatitis was found. After pancreaticoduodenectomy, the patient died from uncontrollable gastrointestinal bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case in China and the second case worldwide of annular pancreas accompanied with IPMN in English literature.

Does the use of neoadjuvant therapy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma increase postoperative morbidity and mortality rates?

INTRODUCTION

The impact of neoadjuvant therapy on postpancreatectomy complications is inadequately described.

METHODS

Data from the NSQIP Pancreatectomy Demonstration Project (11/2011 to 12/2012) was used to identify patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who did and did not receive neoadjuvant therapy. Neoadjuvant therapy was classified as chemotherapy alone or radiation ± chemotherapy. Outcomes in the neoadjuvant vs. surgery first groups were compared.

RESULTS

Of 1,562 patients identified at 43 hospitals, 199 (12.7%) received neoadjuvant therapy (99 chemotherapy alone and 100 radiation ± chemotherapy). Preoperative biliary stenting (57.9 vs. 44.7%, p = 0.0005), vascular resection (41.5 vs. 17.3%, p < 0.0001), and open resections (94.0 vs. 91.4%, p = 0.008) were more common in the neoadjuvant group. Thirty-day mortality (2.0 vs. 1.5%, p = 0.56) and postoperative morbidity rates (56.3 vs. 52.8%, p = 0.35) were similar between groups. Neoadjuvant therapy patients had fewer organ space infections (3.0 vs. 10.3%, p = 0.001), and neoadjuvant radiation patients had fewer pancreatic fistulas (7.3 vs. 15.4%, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite evidence for more extensive disease, patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy did not experience more complications. Neoadjuvant radiation was associated with lower pancreatic fistula rates. These data provide evidence against higher postoperative complication rates in patients with pancreatic cancer who are treated with neoadjuvant therapy.

End-to-End Invaginated Pancreaticojejunostomy with Three Overlapping U-Sutures--A Safe and Simple Method of Pancreaticoenteric Anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula associated with mortality and morbidity remains an intractable problem after pancreaticoduodenectomy. To date it still carries a notable incidence of roughly 10% to 30% in large series in spite of numerous pharmacological and technical methods that have been proposed to achieve a leakproof pancreatic remnant.

METHODS

In order to perform a safe anastomosis to pancreatic remnant with less sophisticated sutures and shorter operative duration, a fast and simple technique of end-to-end invaginated pancreaticojejunostomy with three overlapping U-sutures was devised in our institution.

RESULTS

Between April 2011 and July 2013, end-to-end invaginated pancreaticojejunostomy with three overlapping U-sutures technique was used in 23 consecutive cases that underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy in our institute. The median operative time for pancreaticojejunostomy was 12 min. The incidence of pancreatic fistula was 8.7% (n = 2) and both cases were grade A fistula with no clinical impact or delayed hospital discharge. Neither relaparotomy nor postoperative mortality was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique of using three overlapping U-sutures in an end-to-end invaginated pancreaticojejunostomy represents a simple management of pancreaticoenteric anastomosis with reliability and applicability, and provides an alternative choice for pancreaticojejunostomy to senior pancreatic surgeons as well as those without experience.

Pancreatic surgery: evolution and current tailored approach

Surgical resection of pancreatic cancer offers the only chance for prolonged survival. Pancretic resections are technically challenging, and are accompanied by a substantial risk for postoperative complications, the most significant complication being a pancreatic fistula. Risk factors for development of pancreatic leakage are now well known, and several prophylactic pharmacological measures, as well as technical interventions have been suggested in prevention of pancreatic fistula. With better postoperative care and improved radiological interventions, most frequently complications can be managed conservatively. This review also attempts to address some of the controversies related to optimal management of the pancreatic remnant after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Intraoperative gastrojejunoscopy-assisted fistulojejunostomy for postoperative pancreatic fistula

Postoperative pancreatic fistula is a known complication after pancreaticojejunostomy. When an anastomosis collapses completely, two-stage reconstruction is necessary. Herein, we describe the case of a 70-year-old woman who underwent subtotal stomach-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy with pancreaticojejunostomy after she had developed a severe postoperative pancreatic fistula. The pancreaticojejunostomy was divided, and an external pancreatic drainage tube was placed. Four months later, fistulojejunostomy between the pancreas and the stump of the jejunum was performed successfully using intraoperative gastrojejunoscopy.

Low drain fluid amylase predicts absence of pancreatic fistula following pancreatectomy

INTRODUCTION

Improvements in the ability to predict pancreatic fistula could enhance patient outcomes. Previous studies demonstrate that drain fluid amylase on postoperative day 1 (DFA1) is predictive of pancreatic fistula. We sought to assess the accuracy of DFA1 and to identify a reliable DFA1 threshold under which pancreatic fistula is ruled out.

METHODS

Patients undergoing pancreatic resection from November 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012 were selected from the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pancreatectomy Demonstration Project database. Pancreatic fistula was defined as drainage of amylase-rich fluid with drain continuation >7 days, percutaneous drainage, or reoperation for a pancreatic fluid collection. Univariate and multi-variable regression models were utilized to identify factors predictive of pancreatic fistula.

RESULTS

DFA1 was recorded in 536 of 2,805 patients who underwent pancreatic resection, including pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 380), distal pancreatectomy (n = 140), and enucleation (n = 16). Pancreatic fistula occurred in 92/536 (17.2%) patients. DFA1, increased body mass index, small pancreatic duct size, and soft texture were associated with fistula (p < 0.05). A DFA1 cutoff value of <90 U/L demonstrated the highest negative predictive value of 98.2%. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve confirmed the predictive relationship of DFA1 and pancreatic fistula.

CONCLUSION

Low DFA1 predicts the absence of a pancreatic fistula. In patients with DFA1 < 90 U/L, early drain removal is advisable.

Assessing the short- and long-term outcomes after resection of benign insulinoma

BACKGROUND

Insulinoma is a rare functional pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (NET) believed to have an excellent long-term outcome, but few studies have solely focused on this issue after apparently curative resection. This study aimed to assess post-operative and long-term outcomes after resection of benign insulinomas.

METHODS

From 1998 to 2013, 36 consecutive patients with insulinomas underwent surgery. Three patients had multiple endocrine neoplasia type-1 (MEN-1). Demographics, operative findings, tumour grade (2010 World Health Organization (WHO) NET classification), post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) grade (International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPF)), complications and recurrence were analysed.

RESULTS

Eighteen (50%) had enucleation while the rest underwent pancreatic resection. The majority (86.1%) of insulinomas belonged to WHO NET grade G1. POPF occurred in 58.3% of patients while clinical fistula (ISGPF grades B and C) occurred in 19.4%. One (2.8%) patient required reoperation. The occurrence of POPF was not related to type of resection or surgical approach. There was no perioperative mortality. After a mean follow-up of 83.6 months, two patients (5.7%) developed disease recurrence at 34.4 and 131.9 months after initial surgery. No patients developed distant metastasis. The 10- and 15-year disease-free rates were 95.6 and 85.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

POPF occurred frequently and posed a significant morbidity after resection of insulinoma. However, it occurred independently of type of resection or surgical approach. Although the immediate cure rate after resection was high (100%), long-term disease recurrence in sporadic (non-MEN-1) cases was not insignificant. Regular long-term follow-up is recommended.

Pancreatic duct leak in a case of post Whipple surgery: Managed by endoscopic ultrasound guided pancreatogastrostomy

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) provides an option of minimal invasive intervention over surgery. EUS-guided pancreatogastrostomy (EPH) is particularly useful in patients with altered anatomy where ERCP is not feasible. This paper reports a case of post Whipple surgery pancreatic ductal leak and external pancreatic fistula, which was managed by EPH. The patient had uneventful post-procedure course and were asymptomatic at 6 months.

Objective parameters aid the prediction of fistulas in pancreatic surgery

Insufficiency of pancreatic anastomosis with leakage from the pancreatic stump and the development of fistulas account for the majority of surgical complications following pancreatic resection, which are often life threatening. The cause of pancreatic fistulas of the remnant tissue on a molecular level remains unclear. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate risk factors associated with postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) formation and to define parameters that may predict the resection outcome. Pancreatic resection margins were selected from 31 patients, including 16 individuals without and 15 patients with POPF, to analyze the degree of fibrosis, lipomatous atrophy, inflammatory activity and infiltration. Wound healing factors were assessed by luminex technology using tissue homogenates, while the distribution in situ was assessed using immunohistochemistry. Increased chronic inflammatory infiltration, a higher degree of fibrosis and a reduction in lipomatous atrophy were observed in the samples without anastomotic fistulas. Multiplex analysis of 38 wound healing factors demonstrated significantly higher levels of interleukin (IL)-6, -8 and -12, glucagon-like peptide-1 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, -2, -3 and -12 in the group without fistulas, while lower concentrations of IL-10, IL-17 and gastric inhibitory polypeptide were observed. Therefore, the observations of the present study indicated that increased inflammatory infiltration and inflammatory activity, as well as higher concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and higher MMP levels at the resection margins, predisposed individuals to a lower fistula incidence rate following pancreatic resection.

Management of pancreatic ductal leaks and fistulae

Pancreatic duct leaks can occur as a result of both acute and chronic pancreatitis or in the setting of pancreatic trauma. Manifestations of leaks include pseudocysts, pancreatic ascites, high amylase pleural effusions, disconnected duct syndrome, and internal and external pancreatic fistulas. Patient presentations are highly variable and range from asymptomatic pancreatic cysts to patients with severe abdominal pain and sepsis from infected fluid collections. The diagnosis can often be made by high-quality cross-sectional imaging or during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Because of their complexity, pancreatic leak patients are best managed by a multidisciplinary team comprised of therapeutic endoscopists, interventional radiologists, and surgeons in the field of pancreatic interventions. Minor leaks will often resolve with conservative management while severe leaks will frequently require interventions. Endoscopic treatments for pancreatic duct leaks have replaced surgical interventions in many situations. Interventional radiologists also have the ability to offer therapeutic interventions for many leak patients. The mainstay of endotherapy for pancreatic leaks is transpapillary pancreatic duct stenting with a stent that bridges the leak if possible, but varies based on the manifestation and clinical presentation. Fluid collections that result from leaks, such as pseudocysts, can often be treated by endoscopic transluminal drainage with or without endoscopic ultrasound or by percutaneous drainage. Endoscopic interventions have been shown to be effective and have an acceptable complication rate.

Prediction of postoperative pancreatic fistulas after pancreatectomy: assessment with acoustic radiation force impulse elastography

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate the usefulness of acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography of the pancreas for predicting postoperative pancreatic fistula occurrence after pancreatic resection.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients underwent ARFI elastography of the pancreas before pancreatic resection (11 men and 14 women; mean age, 59.1 years; range, 28-76 years). In each patient, 3 valid ARFI measurements (meters per second) were performed at the head of the pancreas, and the median values were calculated. Patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (n = 18) or distal pancreatectomy (n = 7). Clinically relevant fistulas (grade B or higher) were determined according to the standard criteria used by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula. Preoperative ARFI values were compared between the fistula and nonfistula groups (Mann-Whitney test).

RESULTS

Clinically relevant fistulas (grade B or higher) were observed in 8 patients (32%; fistula group), including 5 of 18 patients with pancreaticoduodenectomy (28%) and 3 of 7 patients with distal pancreatectomy (43%). The ARFI values in the fistula group (median, 1.45 m/s; range, 0.80-1.98 m/s) were lower than in the nonfistula group (median, 1.54 m/s; range, 0.98-3.40 m/s), but there was no statistical significance (P = .1374). When confining the results to only patients with pancreaticoduodenectomy, the ARFI values were significantly lower in the patients with fistulas (median, 0.98 m/s; range, 0.80-1.94 m/s) than in those without fistulas (median, 1.60 m/s; range, 1.08-3.40 m/s; P = .0460).

CONCLUSIONS

This preliminary study showed the potential feasibility of a clinical application of ARFI elastography in preoperatively predicting postoperative pancreatic fistulas after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Investigation of this method in larger studies is needed.

[Pancreatojejunostomy--with purse-string suture]

INTRODUCTION

Pancreatic fistula is one of the most relevant complications following pancreatoduodenectomies. Significant effort has been made to decrease it. The aim of the authors was to show a pancreatojejunal anastomosis combined with purse-string suture, and report the first experiences, as well.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The implantation pancreatojejunostomy - which has been applied by the authors since 2003 - was modified, that the remnant of the pancreas was fixed in the jejunum with one purse-string and two mattress sutures. In case of a soft pancreas the Wirsungian duct was stented, then the vein canule was pulled out to the outside throught the afferent jejunal limb. The method was applied in seven patients during pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy performed for neoplasm.

RESULTS

In the postoperative period there were two complications in two patients noted (a bleeding ulcer developed in the region of the duodenojejunostomy and a transient confusion). However there was no pancreatic fistula, reoperation or early mortality detected.

CONCLUSIONS

While major conclusions can not be drawn due to the relatively small number of cases, this method seems promising and it is worth to carry out further trials.

Establishment of a simple predictive scoring system for pancreatic fistula after laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

The potential severity of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) necessitates efforts to identify predictive factors for POPF. The aim of the present study was to identify predictive factors for POPF and to establish a predictive scoring system for POPF after LAG.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between June 2004 and March 2011, 277 gastric cancer patients who underwent curative resection with LAG were enrolled. POPF was defined according to the International Study Group for Pancreatic Fistula grading system. Risk factors for POPF were evaluated using logistic regression analysis, and a scoring system for POPF was established.

RESULTS

In the derivation cohort, multivariate analysis revealed the risk factors for POPF as patient age ≤70 years (5 points), amylase level of postoperative day 1 drainage fluid >454 IU/L(5 points), total number of retrieved lymph nodes >21 (5 points), body mass index >21.45 kg/m(2) (4 points), and operating time >337 min (2 points). In the validation cohort, at the cut-off point for high risk (score ≥15), the model had a negative predictive value of 94.5%, a positive predictive value of 57.4%, a sensitivity of 88.6%, and a specificity of 75.0% (C statistic = 0.857).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that POPF after LAG is associated with specific preoperative and postoperative factors. With a simple predictive scoring system, patients at high risk for POPF can be accurately identified. This simple predictive scoring system will be useful for many clinicians to assess the risk of POPF after LAG and start treating at-risk patients earlier.