Systematic review and meta-analysis of somatostatin analogues for the treatment of pancreatic fistula

Risk factors and prevention of pancreatic fistula after laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer

Following laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG), one of the critical complications that can arise is a pancreatic fistula (PF). The inability to promptly prevent, diagnose, and manage this condition can lead to severe complications and potentially be life-threatening for the patient. The incidence of PF post-LG in gastric cancer treatment is related to factors such as surgical approach, surgical instruments, characteristics of the pancreas itself, tumor stage, and the surgeon’s experience. Currently, the diagnosis of postoperative PF is mainly based on the definition and diagnostic criteria consensus established by the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery. Gastrointestinal surgeons should be aware of the risk factors for PF, perform LG for gastric cancer with great care and precision, avoid pancreatic injury, and actively work to reduce the risk of postoperative PF.

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome: diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and future directions

INTRODUCTION

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS) is a pathological condition that causes various symptoms due to the continuous secretion of pancreatic enzymes from the pancreas upstream, which has been separated due to disconnection of the pancreatic duct (DPD) for various reasons.Acute necrotizing pancreatitis includes a certain probability of DPDS appearance, which makes it necessary to provide various treatments for DPDS. Furthermore, DPDS can impact long-term results, such as recurrence and impaired pancreatic function. Although the development of various modalities has contributed to diagnosis and treatment, especially less invasive endoscopic therapy, DPDS is often overlooked, and the diagnosis can be delayed due to the lack of consensus on its definition and classification. This review summarizes the current knowledge and challenges of DPDS and discusses the optimal strategy for its diagnosis and treatment, as well as future perspectives.

AREAS COVERED

Given the lack of established definition, diagnosis, and treatment of DPDS, we conducted a thorough review of the existing literature.

EXPERT OPINION

It is emphasized that a standardized definition and classification of DPDS is essential for designing and conducting clinical studies to address current unmet needs in managing patients with DPDS.

Prophylactic somatostatin analogs for postoperative pancreatic fistulas: a cross-sectional survey of AHPBA surgeons

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistulas lead to substantially increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs after pancreatectomy. Studies have reported conflicting data on the role of prophylactic somatostatin analogs in the reduction of postoperative pancreatic fistula. Current practice patterns, surgeon beliefs, and barriers to using these drugs in the Americas is not known.

METHODS

An online 26-question cross-sectional survey was distributed via email to the members of the Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association in April 2023.

RESULTS

One hundred and two surgeons responded in spring 2023. 48.0% of respondents reported using prophylactic SSAs during their surgical training, however, only 29.4% do so in their current practice, most commonly when performing Whipple procedures. Octreotide was the most frequently used SSA (34.3%), followed by octreotide LAR (12.7%) and pasireotide (11.8%). Reasons for not prescribing included a lack of high-quality data (62.7%), perception of limited efficacy (34.3%) and high cost (30.4%).

CONCLUSION

These results highlight key areas for future study including understanding surgeon rationale for patient and drug selection. Variable practice patterns amongst surgeons also underscore the importance of generalizability in the design of future clinical trials in order to maximize impact.

Persisting Cutaneous Pancreatic Fistula in a Patient With Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Novel Approach of Transfistulous Histoacryl Occlusion

Necrotizing pancreatitis with superinfection of necrotic tissue is associated with a high rate of complications and mortality. The step-up approach is a well-established treatment strategy for necrotizing pancreatitis, emphasizing minimally invasive and endoscopic interventions before considering surgical options. Minimally invasive strategies often involve percutaneous drainage of collections, which carries the risk of persisting cutaneous pancreatic fistulas. Since there is currently no guidance for managing this scenario, we present a novel treatment approach that utilized tissue glue to occlude a persisting and clinically compromising percutaneous fistula. In addition, we summarize the current knowledge in the treatment of percutaneous pancreatic fistulas and provide a potential therapeutic algorithm for further evaluation.

Somatostatin Versus Octreotide for Prevention of Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula: The PREFIPS Randomized Clinical Trial: A FRENCH 007-ACHBT Study

OBJECTIVE

Pharmacological prevention of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreatectomy is open to debate. The present study compares clinically significant POPF rates in patients randomized between somatostatin versus octreotide as prophylactic treatment.

METHODS

Multicentric randomized controlled open study in patient's candidate for pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) or distal pancreatectomy (DP) comparing somatostatin continuous intravenous infusion for 7 days versus octreotid 100 μg, every 8 hours subcutaneous injection for 7 days, stratified by procedure (PD vs DP) and size of the main pancreatic duct (>4 mm) on grade B/C POPF rates at 90 days based on an intention-to-treat analysis.

RESULTS

Of 763 eligible patients, 651 were randomized: 327 in the octreotide arm and 324 in the somatostatin arm, with comparable the stratification criteria - type of surgery and main pancreatic duct dilatation. Most patients had PD (n=480; 73.8%), on soft/normal pancreas (n=367; 63.2%) with a nondilated main pancreatic duct (n=472; 72.5%), most often for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (n=311; 47.8%). Almost all patients had abdominal drainage (n=621; 96.1%) and 121 (19.5%) left the hospital with the drain in place (median length of stay=16 days). A total of 153 patients (23.5%) developed a grade B/C POPF with no difference between both groups: 24.1%: somatostatin arm and 22.9%: octreotide arm (χ 2 test, P =0.73, ITT analysis). Absence of statistically significant difference persisted after adjustment for stratification variables and in per-protocol analysis.

CONCLUSION

Continuous intravenous somatostatin is not statistically different from subcutaneous octreotide in the prevention of grade B/C POPF after pancreatectomy.

FINDINGS

In the PREFIPS Randomized Clinical Trial including 651 patients, a total of 153 patients (23.5%) developed a grade B/C POPF with no significant difference between both groups: 24.1%: somatostatin arm and 22.9%: octreotide arm (χ 2 test, P =0.73, ITT analysis). Absence of statistically significant difference persisted after adjustment for stratification variables and in per-protocol analysis.

Is duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy necessary after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

The incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula is influenced by the effectiveness of the pancreaticojejunostomy, and the most suitable pancreaticojejunostomy for pancreaticoduodenectomy remains uncertain. Since grade A postoperative pancreatic fistula is no longer considered a true fistula, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the effectiveness of duct-to-mucosa anastomosis and invagination anastomosis in reducing the incidence of grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula. The meta-analysis was conducted using software Review Manager 5.3, and the fixed-effect model was employed for pooled statistic calculations. The Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool was utilized for quality assessment. Ten randomized controlled trials from Embase, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library (1990.01-2022.10) including 1471 patients, met the inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis has been registered on PROSPERO with the registration number CRD42023491673. The incidence of grade B/C fistula was significantly lower in the invagination group (7.7 %) compared to the duct-to-mucosa group (12.8 %, mostly Cattell manner)(RR = 1.65, 95%CI: 1.14-2.39, P = 0.008; heterogeneity: P = 0.008, I2 = 68 %),heterogeneity among the results was addressed through sensitivity analysis. In patients with a soft pancreas, the incidence of grade B/C fistula was significantly lower in those who underwent invagination anastomosis (10 %) compared to those who underwent duct-to-mucosa anastomosis (41.9 %)(RR = 4.19, 95%CI: 1.33-13.25, P = 0.01).No significant differences were observed in terms of the occurrence of grade B/C fistula in firm pancreas, postoperative mortality, other major postoperative complications, anastomosis time, and postoperative bile leak. Therefore, we concluded that invagination anastomosis is significantly superior to duct-to-mucosa anastomosis in reducing the incidence of grade B/C fistula, especially in patients with a soft pancreas.

Updates in the management of postoperative pancreatic fistula

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains a common and dreaded complication after pancreatic resections and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Over the years, several different strategies have been investigated to prevent and mitigate POPF. However, when a POPF occurs, a consensus on the optimal management strategy of grade B and grade C POPF is still lacking, and the current management strategy is often based on local expertise and driven by patient's condition. Nevertheless, whereas the incidence of POPF after pancreatic surgery has remained stable, the overall mortality related to this complication has decreased over the years. This reflects an improvement in the management of this complication, which has become increasingly conservative. The aim of this review is to provide an updated evidence- based overview on the management strategies of POPF for surgeons and physicians in the clinical practice.

Imaging Diagnosis and Management of Fistulas in Pancreatitis

Pancreatic fistula is a highly morbid complication of pancreatitis. External pancreatic fistulas result when pancreatic secretions leak externally into the percutaneous drains or external wound (following surgery) due to the communication of the peripancreatic collection with the main pancreatic duct (MPD). Internal pancreatic fistulas include communication of the pancreatic duct (directly or via intervening collection) with the pleura, pericardium, mediastinum, peritoneal cavity, or gastrointestinal tract. Cross-sectional imaging plays an essential role in the management of pancreatic fistulas. With the help of multiplanar imaging, fistulous tracts can be delineated clearly. Thin computed tomography sections and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography images may demonstrate the communication between MPD and pancreatic fluid collections or body cavities. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP) is diagnostic as well as therapeutic. In this review, we discuss the imaging diagnosis and management of various types of pancreatic fistulas with the aim to sensitize radiologists to timely diagnosis of this critical complication of pancreatitis.

Reinforced stapling does not reduce postoperative pancreatic fistula in distal pancreatectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is a severe complication after distal pancreatectomy (DP); however, it is unclear how to effectively reduce the incidence. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to determine whether reinforced stapling reduces POPF after DP. From February 2007 to April 2023, a comprehensive search of electronic data and references was conducted in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. In this study, the perioperative outcomes were evaluated for the reinforced stapler (RS) group and the standard stapler (SS) group in DP using Review Manager Software. Using fixed- or random-effects models, pooled odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. In total, three randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with 425 patients and five observational clinical studies (OCS) with 318 patients were included. In pooled meta-analyses from RCTs, there was no difference between the two groups in the incidence of POPF (OR = 0.79; 95% CI [0.47,1.35]; P = 0.39), intraoperative blood loss (MD = 10.66; 95% CI [- 28.83,50.16]; P = 0.6), operative time (MD = 9.88; 95% CI [- 8.92,28.67]; P = 0.3), major morbidity (OR = 1.12; 95% CI [0.67,1.90]; P = 0.66), reoperation (OR = 0.97; 95% CI [0.41,2.32]; P = 0.95), readmission (OR = 0.99; 95% CI [0.57,1.72]; P = 0.97) or hospital stay (MD = - 0.95; 95% CI [- 5.22,3.31]; P = 0.66). However, the results of POPF and readmission were favorable for RS in the OCS group.

Somatostatin-analog effect on pancreatic fistula after radical gastrectomy: a pilot randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Radical gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy can trigger a high incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF), which produces a poor clinical prognosis. We sought to evaluate the effect of somatostatin analogs (SSA) on POPF and clinical prognosis after radical gastrectomy.

METHODS

A total of 123 patients with a high risk of POPF after radical gastrectomy (drainage fluid amylase concentration on a postoperative day [POD] 1 > 3 times the upper limit of normal serum amylase value) were randomly divided into the SSA group (n = 61) and the control group (n = 62). The former received continuous intravenous SSA (0.3 mg/8 h) for 3 days from POD1, and the latter normal saline. The primary outcome was the incidence of POPF.

RESULTS

The incidence of POPFs in the SSA group was significantly lower than that in the control group (3.3% vs. 14.5%, P = 0.029). The incidence of short-term postoperative complications was significantly lower in the SSA group than in the control group (9.8% vs. 24.2%, P = 0.034). The median white blood cell counts, neutrophil counts, and the percentage of neutrophils on POD4 were significantly lower in the SSA group than in the control group (all P < 0.05). The SSA group had a shorter mean time to the first liquid diet (87.33 ± 17.92 h vs. 93.97 ± 17.29 h, P = 0.039). And the SSA group had less median daily drainage volume (96.33 mL vs. 119.67 mL, P = 0.025) and shorter drainage duration (7.0 days vs. 10.0 days, P = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

Postoperative treatment with a somatostatin analog reduced the incidence of POPF and short-term complications after radical gastrectomy. (TRN: ChiCTR2200056201, Reg. Date: 2022/2/1).

Management of postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy

A postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is the main complication after cephalic pancreaticoduodenectomy (CPD). Unlike its prevention, the curative management of POPFs has long been poorly codified. This review seeks best practices for managing POPFs after CPD. The diagnosis of a POPF is based on two signs: (i) an amylase level in drained fluid more than 3 times the upper limit of the blood amylase level; and (ii) an abnormal clinical course. In the standardised definition of the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery, a purely biochemical fistula is no longer counted as a POPF and is treated by gradual withdrawal of the drain over at most 3 weeks. POPF risk can be scored using pre- and intraoperative clinical criteria, many of which are related to the quality of the pancreatic parenchyma and are common to several scoring systems. The prognostic value of these scores can be improved as early as Day 1 by amylase assays in blood and drained fluid. Recent literature, including in particular the Dutch randomised trial PORSCH, argues for early systematic detection of a POPF (periodic assays, CT-scan with injection indicated on standardised clinical and biological criteria plus an opinion from a pancreatic surgeon), for rapid minimally invasive treatment of collections (percutaneous drainage, antibiotic therapy indicated on standardised criteria) to forestall severe septic and/or haemorrhagic forms, and for the swift withdrawal of abdominal drains when the risk of a POPF is theoretically low and evolution is favourable. A haemorrhage occurring after Day 1 always requires CT angiography with arterial time and monitoring in intensive care. Minimally invasive treatment of a POPF (radiologically-guided percutaneous drainage or, more rarely, endoscopic drainage, arterial embolisation) should be preferred as first-line treatment. The addition of artificial nutrition (enteral via a nasogastric or nasojejunal tube, or parenteral) is most often useful. If minimally invasive treatment fails, then reintervention is indicated, preserving the remaining pancreas if possible, but the expected mortality is higher.

Endoscopic management of pancreatic fluid collections with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome (DPDS) is an important and common complication of acute necrotizing pancreatitis. Endoscopic approach has been established as the first-line treatment for pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) with less invasion and satisfactory outcome. However, the presence of DPDS significantly complicates the management of PFC; besides, there is no standardized treatment for DPDS. The diagnosis of DPDS presents the first step of management, which can be preliminarily established by imaging methods including contrast-enhanced computed tomography, ERCP, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), and EUS. Historically, ERCP is considered as the gold standard for the diagnosis of DPDS, and secretin-enhanced MRCP is recommended as an appropriate diagnostic method in existing guidelines. With the development of endoscopic techniques and accessories, the endoscopic approach, mainly including transpapillary and transmural drainage, has been developed as the preferred treatment over percutaneous drainage and surgery for the management of PFC with DPDS. Many studies concerning various endoscopic treatment strategies have been published, especially in the recent 5 years. Nonetheless, existing current literature has reported inconsistent and confusing results. In this article, the latest evidence is summarized to explore the optimal endoscopic management of PFC with DPDS.

Outcomes and predictors of response to endotherapy in pancreatic ductal disruptions with refractory internal and high-output external fistulae

Backgrounds/Aims

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) remains the primary treatment for a subset of patients with pancreatic fistulae. The objective of this study was reporting outcomes of ERCP and predictors of resolution in patients with pancreatic fistulae refractory to conservative therapy.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients who underwent ERCP and pancreatic stent placement for pancreatic fistula not responding to medical therapy was performed. Clinical features, laboratory parameters, radiological features and pancreatogram findings were noted. Clinical resolution of fistula was the primary outcome measure.

Results

Sixty-eight patients underwent ERCP for high-output pancreatic fistula (Mean age 34.1 years, 91.1% males, 35/68 chronic pancreatitis, 52.9% alcohol etiology). Internal fistulae (pancreatic ascites, pleural effusion, or pericardial effusion) were seen in 55 (80.9%) patients and external fistula in 13 (19.1%) patients. Technical success for ERCP was 92.6% (63/68). Leak was seen in 98.4% (62/63). The most common leak site was body (69.8%). Multiple leak sites were seen in 23.1%. Pancreatic stricture was found in 36.5%. In 44 (69.4%) patients, stent was placed beyond the site of the leak. Resolution at six weeks was achieved in 76.4% (52/68). On univariate and multivariate analyses, placement of stent beyond site of leak was significantly associated with resolution of high-output fistulae (3/41 [7.3%] vs. 5/19 [26.3%], p = 0.03; odds ratio: 6.5, 95% confidence interval: 1.211-34.94).

Conclusions

In our experience, ERCP was successful in 76% of patients with pancreatic fistulae refractory to conservative therapy. Stent placement beyond the site of leak was associated with higher resolution of fistulae.

Mind the Gap-Disconnected Duct Syndrome: A Review of Current Diagnostic and Management Strategies

ABSTRACT

Disconnected duct syndrome (DDS) is an adverse sequela of acute necrotizing pancreatitis in which there is disruption of the pancreatic duct leading to a failure to deliver pancreatic secretions into the duodenum. Its presentation may range from a persistent external pancreatic fistula to a treatment-resistant pancreatic pseudocyst. The diagnosis is often delayed in the acute setting if there is concurrent necrosis as management is often directed to the associated peripancreatic fluid collection. A combination of imaging modalities may be required to evaluate ductal anatomy. No definitive consensus has been achieved regarding the optimal treatment strategy for DDS, and there is a lack of published level I evidence on the topic. Treatment should be tailored to each individual patient, depending on the anatomy of ductal disruption, the presence of sepsis, the degree of physiological derangement, and the patients' performance status. Patients with DDS represent a specific cohort of patients with complex pancreatic disease that requires the input from a diverse multidisciplinary team to ensure that a good clinical outcome can be achieved.

The clinical impact of modified transpancreatic mattress sutures with polyglactin 910 woven mesh on postoperative pancreatic fistula in distal pancreatectomy

BACKGROUND

We previously reported the stump closure method for the remnant pancreas in distal pancreatectomy, in which soft coagulation and polyglycolic acid felt attached with fibrin glue were utilized. Transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh was recently reported as a novel stump closure technique. We developed the modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh method, which combined our polyglycolic acid felt method with the transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh method.

METHODS

The polyglycolic acid felt group included patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy in whom the pancreatic stump was closed with the polyglycolic acid felt method from 2017 to 2018 (n = 54); whereas the modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh group included those whose stump was closed with the modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh method from 2019 to 2020 (n = 51). Perioperative parameters, including grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula (clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula), were assessed according to the stump closure method.

RESULTS

The incidence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula was significantly lower in the modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh group than in the polyglycolic acid felt group (7.8% vs 22.2%, P = .036). In multivariate analysis, the use of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and the transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh method were independent factors for preventing clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (P = .011 and 0.0038, respectively). Moreover, in the modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh group, the incidence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula in patients with a thick pancreas (≥13 mm, 6.7%) was comparably as low as that in patients with a thin pancreas (<13 mm, 9.5%).

CONCLUSION

The modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh method is an effective stump closure technique to prevent clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy. Our results warrant further prospective investigation to evaluate the efficacy of the modified transpancreatic mattress suture with polyglactin 910 woven mesh method compared with other standard closure methods (eg, stapler closure or hand-sewn closure).

Spontaneous Internal Pancreatic Fistulae Complicating Acute Pancreatitis

Spontaneous pancreatic fistula (PF) is a rare but challenging complication of acute pancreatitis (AP). The fistulae could be internal (draining into another viscera or cavity, e.g., pancreaticocolonic, gastric, duodenal, jejunal, ileal, pleural, or bronchial) or external (draining to skin, i.e., pancreaticocutaneous). Internal fistulae constitute the majority of PF and will be discussed in this review. Male sex, alcohol abuse, severe AP, and infected necrosis are the major risk factors for development of internal PF. A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose PF. Broad availability of computed tomography makes it the initial test of choice. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography have higher sensitivity compared with computed tomography scan and also allow for assessment of pancreatic duct for leak or disconnection, which affects treatment approaches. Certain complications of PF including hemorrhage and sepsis could be life-threatening and require urgent intervention. In nonurgent/chronic cases, management of internal PF involves control of sepsis, which requires effective drainage of any residual pancreatic collection/necrosis, sometimes by enlarging the fistula. Decreasing fistula output with somatostatin analogs (in pancreaticopleural fistula) and decreasing intraductal pressure with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or endoscopic ultrasound/interventional radiology-guided interventions or surgery are commonly used strategies for management of PF. More than 60% of the internal PF close with medical and nonsurgical interventions. Colonic fistula, medical refractory-PF, or PF associated with disconnected pancreatic duct can require surgical intervention including bowel resection or distal pancreatectomy. In conclusion, AP-induced spontaneous internal PF is a complex complication requiring multidisciplinary care for successful management.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of factors associated with post-operative pancreatic fistula following pancreatoduodenectomy

BACKGROUND

Many studies have explored factors relating to post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF); however, the original definition (All-POPF) was revised to include only 'clinically relevant' (CR) POPF. This study identified variables associated with the two International Study Group on Pancreatic Surgery definitions to identify which variables are more strongly associated with CR-POPF.

METHODS

A systematic review identified all studies reporting risk factors for POPF (using both International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula definitions) following pancreatoduodenectomy. The primary outcome was factors associated with CR-POPF. Meta-analyses (random effects models) of pre-, intra- and post-operative factors associated with POPF in more than two studies were included.

RESULTS

Among 52 774 patients All-POPF (n = 69 studies) and CR-POPF (n = 53 studies) affected 27% (95% confidence interval (CI_95% ) 23-30) and 19% (CI_95% 17-22), respectively. Of the 176 factors, 24 and 17 were associated with All- and CR-POPF, respectively. Absence of pre-operative pancreatitis, presence of renal disease, no pre-operative neoadjuvant therapy, use of post-operative somatostatin analogues, absence of associated venous or arterial resection were associated with CR-POPF but not All-POPF.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion this study demonstrates wide variation in reported rates of POPF and that several risk factors associated with CR-POPF are not used within risk prediction models. Data from this study can be used to shape future studies, research and audit across ethnic and geographic boundaries in POPF following pancreatoduodenectomy.

Disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome: Updated review on clinical implications and management

Disconnected Pancreatic Duct Syndrome (DPDS) is an important but often overlooked complication of acute necrotising pancreatitis (ANP) that occurs due to necrosis of the main pancreatic duct (PD). This segmental necrosis leads on to disconnection between the viable upstream pancreatic parenchyma and the duodenum. The disconnected and functional segment of pancreas continues to secrete pancreatic juice that is not drained into the gastrointestinal tract and lead on to recurrent pancreatic fluid collections (PFC), refractory external pancreatic flstulae and chronic abdominal pain/recurrent pancreatitis. Because of lack of awareness of this important complication of ANP, the diagnosis of DPDS is usually delayed. The delay in diagnosis increases the morbidity of the disease as well as increase the cost of treatment and duration of hospital stay. Surgery has remained the cornerstone for management of patients with DPDS. The conventional surgical approaches have been either resection or internal drainage procedures. Surgery for DPDS in the setting of ANP is often difficult due to presence of local inflammation and extensive venous collaterals in the operative field due to splenic vein thrombosis and therefore is associated with significant morbidity. Advancement in therapeutic endoscopy, especially advent of therapeutic endoscopic ultrasound has opened an exciting new field of minimally invasive therapeutic options for management of DPDS. The present review discusses the current understanding of the clinical manifestations, imaging features and management strategies in patients with DPDS.

A Novel Way of Preventing Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula by Directly Injecting Profibrogenic Materials into the Pancreatic Parenchyma

This paper aims to validate if intrapancreatic injection of penicillin G can enhance hardness and suture holding capacity (SHC) of the pancreas through prompting the fibrosis process. Soft pancreatic texture is constantly mentioned as one of the most contributory predictors of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). Soft pancreas has poor SHC and higher incidence of parenchymal tearing, frequently leading to POPF. From a library of 114 antibiotic compounds, we identified that penicillin G substantially enhanced pancreatic hardness and SHC in experimental mice. Specifically, we injected penicillin G directly into the pancreas. On determined dates, we measured the pancreatic hardness and SHC, respectively, and performed molecular and histological examinations for estimation of the degree of fibrosis. The intrapancreatic injection of penicillin G activated human pancreatic stellate cells (HPSCs) to produce various fibrotic materials such as transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and metalloproteinases-2. The pancreatic hardness and SHC were increased to the maximum at the second day after injection and then it gradually subsided demonstrating its reversibility. Pretreatment of mice with SB431542, an inhibitor of the TGF-β1 receptor, before injecting penicillin G intrapancreatically, significantly abrogated the increase of both pancreatic hardness and SHC caused by penicillin G. This suggested that penicillin G promotes pancreatic fibrosis through the TGF-β1 signaling pathway. Intrapancreatic injection of penicillin G promotes pancreatic hardness and SHC by enhancing pancreatic fibrosis. We thus think that penicillin G could be utilized to prevent and minimize POPF, after validating its actual effectiveness and safety by further studies.

An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of the use of octreotide for the prevention of postoperative complications after pancreatic resection

BACKGROUND

The use of octreotide prophylaxis following pancreatic surgery is controversial. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of octreotide for the prevention of postoperative complications after pancreatic surgery through this systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Literature databases (including the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases) were searched systematically for relevant articles. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible for inclusion in our research. We extracted the basic information regarding the patients, intervention procedures, and all complications after pancreatic surgery and then performed the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Thirteen RCTs involving 2006 patients were identified. There were no differences between the octreotide group and the placebo group with regard to pancreatic fistulas (PFs) (relative risk [RR] = 0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.62-0.99, P = .05), clinically significant PFs (RR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.68-1.50, P = .95), mortality (RR = 1.21, 95% CI = 0.78-1.88, P = .40), biliary leakage (RR 0.84, 95% CI = 0.39-1.82, P = .66), delayed gastric emptying (RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.54-1.27, P = .39), abdominal infection (RR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.66-1.52, P = 1.00), bleeding (RR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.78-1.72, P = .46), pulmonary complications (RR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.45-1.18, P = .20), overall complications (RR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.64-1.01, P = .06), and reoperation rates (RR = 1.18, 95% CI = 0.77-1.81, P = .45). In the high-risk group, octreotide was no more effective at reducing PF formation than placebo (RR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.67-1.00, P = .05). In addition, octreotide had no influence on the incidence of PF (RR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.14-1.05, P = .06) after distal pancreatic resection and local pancreatic resection.

CONCLUSION

The present best evidence suggests that prophylactic use of octreotide has no effect on reducing complications after pancreatic resection.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided internalization of a pancreaticocutaneous fistula utilizing a balloon-target technique: A case report

RATIONALE

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided treatment has been recently described for internalizing refractory pancreaticocutaneous fistulas (PCFs). However, the existing techniques are limited because of the difficulty in accessing nondilated pancreatic ducts or fistulas. In an attempt to overcome this limitation, we present a case where a EUS-guided intervention utilizing a balloon-target technique was employed to internalize a PCF into the stomach.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 78-year-old woman underwent percutaneous drainage and 4 percutaneous endoscopic necrosectomies for walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN) after severe acute pancreatitis due to choledocholithiasis. Although the WOPN was resolved, refractory PCFs remained.

DIAGNOSIS

Pancreaticocutaneous fistulas.

INTERVENTIONS

An echoendoscope was introduced into the stomach, but the narrow PCF lumen made visualization of the fistula by EUS difficult. Subsequently, a balloon catheter was percutaneously inserted into the fistula, and then the inflated balloon was visualized by EUS from the stomach. The balloon was punctured with a 19-gauge fine needle through the posterior wall of the upper body of the stomach (balloon-target technique). A guidewire was then passed through the fistula to the outside of the body through the EUS scope. After dilating the gastro-fistula space with an 8-mm balloon dilation catheter, a 7-French double pigtail catheter was placed from the stomach into the PCF.

OUTCOMES

The percutaneous drainage tube was removed after one week, and the patient was discharged 6 months after admission. No adverse outcomes have been observed in the 2 years since the procedure.

LESSONS

PCFs can be successfully managed using EUS-guided internalization with a balloon-target technique.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of postoperative pancreatic fistula rates using the updated 2016 International Study Group Pancreatic Fistula definition in patients undergoing pancreatic resection with soft and hard pancreatic texture

BACKGROUND

In 2016, the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula (ISGPS) proposed an updated definition for postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). Pancreas texture (PT) is an established risk factor of POPF. The definition of soft vs. hard texture, however, remains elusive.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed to identify PT definitions and a meta-analysis linking POPF to PT using the updated ISGPS definition.

RESULTS

122 studies including 22 376 patients were identified. Definition criteria for PT varied among studies and most classified PT in hard and soft based on intraoperative subjective assessment. The total POPF rate (pooled grades B and C) after pancreatoduodenectomy was 14.5% (n = 10 395) and 15.5% (n = 3767) after distal pancreatectomy. In pancreatoduodenectomy, POPF rate was higher in soft compared to hard pancreas (RR, 4.4, 3.3 to 6.1; p < 0.001; n = 6393), where PT grouped as soft and hard. No data were available for intermediate PT.

CONCLUSION

The reported POPF rates may be used in planning future prospective studies. A widely accepted definition of PT is lacking and a correlation with the risk of POPF is based on subjective evaluation, which is still acceptable. Classification of PT into 2-groups is more reasonable than classification into 3-groups.

Efficacy of Triple-Drug Therapy to Prevent Pancreatic Fistulas in Patients With High Drain Amylase Levels After Pancreaticoduodenectomy

BACKGROUNDS

Prior studies have suggested that drain amylase level is a predictive marker for developing pancreatic fistulas (PFs) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). However, means of preventing PF after discovering high drain amylase levels have not been previously established. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a combination drug therapy (using three drugs; gabexate mesilate, octreotide, and carbapenem antibiotics, named as triple-drug therapy [TDT]) regimen in preventing PF for patients with high drain amylase levels on postoperative day (POD) 1 after PD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We divided the 183 patients who underwent PD into two groups in accordance with their enrollment in the study: for those enrolled early in the study (early period), TDT was not administered to patients with high drain amylase level; however, for those enrolled later in the study (late period), TDT was administered if drain amylase levels were over 10,000 IU/L on POD 1. We retrospectively compared the incidence of PF between the two groups.

RESULTS

Incidences of PFs were statistically, significantly prevented in the late group (early 17% versus late 6%; P = 0.01). For patients with low levels of drain amylase (<10,000 IU/L), the PF ratio was equivalent between two groups (early 8% versus late 5%; P = 0.56); however, PFs in patients with high drain amylase levels in the late period group were dramatically prevented by TDT administration (early 89% versus late 11%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

TDT may be a promising therapy to prevent PFs in patients with high drain amylase levels after PD.

Postoperative pancreatic fistula: a review of traditional and emerging concepts

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains the major cause of morbidity after pancreatic resection, affecting up to 41% of cases. With the recent development of a consensus definition of POPF, there has been a large number of reports examining various risk factors, prediction models, and mitigation strategies for this costly complication. Despite these strategies, the rates of POPF have not significantly diminished. Here, we review the literature and evidence regarding both traditional and emerging concepts in POPF prediction, prevention, and management. In particular, we review the evidence for the association between postoperative pancreatitis and POPF, and present a novel proposed mechanism for the development of POPF.

Risk factors for pancreatic fistula following pancreaticoduodenectomy: A retrospective study in a Thai tertiary center

AIM

To analyze the risk factors of postoperative pancreatic fistula following pancreaticoduodenectomy in a Thai tertiary care center.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 179 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy at our hospital from January 2001 to December 2016. Pancreatic fistula were classified into three categories according to a definition made by an International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula. The risk factors for pancreatic fistula were analyzed by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Pancreatic fistula were detected in 88/179 patients (49%) who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. Fifty-eight pancreatic fistula (65.9%) were grade A, 22 cases (25.0%) were grade B and eight cases (9.1%) were grade C. Clinically relevant pancreatic fistula were detected in 30/179 patients (16.7%). The 30-d mortality rate was 1.67% (3/179 patients). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that soft pancreatic texture (odds ratio = 3.598, 95%CI: 1.77-7.32) was the most significant risk factor for pancreatic fistula. A preoperative serum bilirubin level of > 3 mg/dL was the most significant risk factor for clinically relevant pancreatic fistula according to univariate and multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Soft pancreatic tissue is the most significant risk factor for postoperative pancreatic fistula. A high preoperative serum bilirubin level (> 3 mg/dL) is the most significant risk factor for clinically relevant pancreatic fistula.

Role of enteral nutrition in pancreaticocolonic fistulas secondary to severe acute pancreatitis: A case report

RATIONALE

Pancreaticocolonic fistula (PCF) is an exceedingly rare complication of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and has primarily been treated surgically, but a few reported cases are successfully treated with nonsurgical methods.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 32-year-old male presented to our hospital with chief complaints of sharp and persistent left upper quadrant abdominal pain radiating to the back.

DIAGNOSES

Computed tomography showed a pancreatic pseudocyst replacing a majority of the pancreatic parenchyma and PCF that formed between the pancreas and the colon. However, the final diagnosis of PCF was confirmed by drainage tube radiograph, which revealed extravasation of contrast from the tail of the pancreas into the colon.

INTERVENTIONS

A therapeutic strategy of enteral nutrition (EN) was applied.

OUTCOMES

The patient responded well to the treatment. No complication and recurrence were reported during 2-year follow-up.

LESSONS

This case highlights the role of EN in the treatment of PCF secondary to SAP. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of PCF that treated successfully with EN, rather than surgical or endoscopic intervention.

Efficacy of the prophylactic use of octreotide for the prevention of complications after pancreatic resection: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The use of octreotide prophylaxis in the prevention of complications after pancreatic resection remains controversial. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of octreotide prophylactic treatment to prevent complications after pancreatic resection.

METHODS

Five databases (PubMed, Medline, SinoMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for eligible studies from 1980 to November 2016 with the limitation of human subjects and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Data were extracted independently and were analyzed using RevMan statistical software version 5.3 (Cochrane Collaboration, http://tech.cochrane.org/revman/download). Weighted mean differences (WMDs), risk ratios (RRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias.

RESULTS

Twelve RCTs comprising 1902 patients were identified as eligible. The methodological quality of the trials ranged from low to moderate. A pooled analysis of effectiveness based on the data from each study revealed that octreotide could significantly reduce the rate of pancreatic fistula (PF) after pancreatic resection (RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.57-0.98, P = .04). The same findings were discovered in multicenter and European subgroups with a subgroup analysis; no obvious differences were noted in American, Asian, and single-center subgroup analyses. An equal effect was observed between the use or non-use of octreotide groups regarding mortality (RR = 1.24, 95% CI = 0.77-2.02, P = .38). Octreotide had no advantages in regards to mortality improvement. The total numbers of complications associated with the use or non-use of octreotide were similar (RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.58-1.03, P = .08). Among the high-risk group, octreotide was more effective in reducing complications (RR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.46-0.82, P = .0009). Compared with the patients who did not receive prophylactic treatment, the patients who underwent pancreatic resection benefited from octreotide because it had better efficacy in preventing fluid collection and postoperative pancreatitis.

CONCLUSION

The prophylactic use of octreotide is suitable for preventing postoperative complications, especially PF and fluid collection as well as postoperative pancreatitis. However, no obvious differences were noted regarding mortality. In view of the clinical heterogeneity and varying definitions of PF, whether these conclusions are broadly applicable should be further determined in future studies.

Pasireotide for the Prevention of Pancreatic Fistula Following Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Cost-effectiveness Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the cost-effectiveness of perioperative administration of pasireotide for reduction of pancreatic fistula (PF).

SUMMARY

PF is a major complication following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), associated with significant morbidity and healthcare-related costs. Pasireotide is a novel multireceptor ligand somatostatin analogue, which has been demonstrated to reduce the incidence of PF following pancreas resection; however, the drug cost is significant. This study sought to estimate the cost-effectiveness of routine administration of pasireotide to patients undergoing PD, compared with no intervention from the perspective of the hospital system.

METHODS

A decision-analytic model was developed to compare costs for perioperative administration of pasireotide versus no pasireotide. The model was populated using an institutional database containing all PDs performed 2002 to 2012 at a single institution, including data regarding clinically significant PF (International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula Grade B or C) and hospital-related inpatient costs for 90 days following PD, converted to 2014 $USD. Relative risk of PF associated with pasireotide was estimated from the published literature. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to test robustness of the model.

RESULTS

Mean institutional cost of index admissions was $67,417 and $31,950 for patients with and without PF, respectively. Pasireotide was the dominant strategy, associated with savings of $1685, and a mean reduction of 1.5 days length of stay. Univariate sensitivity analyses demonstrated cost-savings down to a PF rate of 5.6%, up to a relative risk of PF of 0.775, and up to a drug cost of $2817. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed 79% of simulations were cost saving.

CONCLUSIONS

Pasireotide appears to be a cost-saving treatment following PD across a wide variation of clinical and cost scenarios.

Disrupted pancreatic duct treated with a combination of endoscopic cystoduodenostomy and pancreatic duct fistualization through a pseudocyst wall using a lumen-apposing metal stent

Management of disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome is complex and is increasingly approached using emerging endoscopic techniques. Herein, we present a case of recurrent pancreatitis in an elderly woman complicated by pseudocyst formation and complete pancreatic duct disruption. Her condition was treated with a novel combination of transpapillary stenting and cystduodenostomy in which a pancreatic duct stent was placed into an opening in the pseudocyst wall through a lumen-apposing metal stent. This allowed for effective drainage into the gastrointestinal tract and resolution of duct disruption. Post-procedure, the patient has had recovery of nutritional status and no further recurrence of pancreatic fluid collection. Endoscopic approaches to complete pancreatic duct disruption represent a viable and less invasive alternative to surgical management in selected cases.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Treatment of Pancreaticocutaneous Fistulas

Pancreaticocutaneous fistulas (PCFs) may be refractory to medical therapy or endoscopic retrograde cholangopancreaticography. Four patients underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided management of refractory PCFs, which were internalized by endoscopic ultrasound-guided transmural puncture of the pancreatic duct (n = 2), fistula tract (n = 1), or both (n = 1), with placement of transmural stents providing internal drainage to the stomach (n = 3) or duodenum (n = 1). Drainage from PCFs ceased in all patients, and all percutaneous drains were removed; internal stents were left in place indefinitely. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided interventions may successfully treat PCFs, allowing removal of percutaneous drains, and are an attractive alternative for patients who might otherwise require pancreatic resection.

Management of Disconnected Pancreatic Duct Syndrome

OPINION STATEMENT

A disconnected pancreatic duct most commonly follows an episode of severe pancreatitis and walled-off necrosis (WON). When the latter is drained percutaneously, a pancreatic fistula connected to an upstream and disconnected duct is commonly seen. Transgastric drainage of WON with or without concomitant percutaneous drainage (dual drainage) will allow placement of two pigtail stents to drain the upstream duct and ultimately allows removal of percutaneous tubes and avoids the need for distal pancreatectomy. These stents should be left in place indefinitely. In patients referred with percutaneous drains and a disconnected pancreatic duct but without a concomitant fluid collection, a combined procedure, in which an interventional radiologist places a TIPS needle into the drain tract to puncture the stomach, allows the endoscopist access to dilate and stent the tract in a manner comparable to pseudocyst drainage. These stents should be left indefinitely, unless subsequent imaging demonstrates atrophy of the disconnected pancreatic tail.

Pancreatogastrostomy Versus Pancreatojejunostomy for RECOnstruction After PANCreatoduodenectomy (RECOPANC, DRKS 00000767): Perioperative and Long-term Results of a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives:

To assess pancreatic fistula rate and secondary endpoints after pancreatogastrostomy (PG) versus pancreatojejunostomy (PJ) for reconstruction in pancreatoduodenectomy in the setting of a multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Background:

PJ and PG are established methods for reconstruction in pancreatoduodenectomy. Recent prospective trials suggest superiority of the PG regarding perioperative complications.

Methods:

A multicenter prospective randomized controlled trial comparing PG with PJ was conducted involving 14 German high-volume academic centers for pancreatic surgery. The primary endpoint was clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula. Secondary endpoints comprised perioperative outcome and pancreatic function and quality of life measured at 6 and 12 months of follow-up.

Results:

From May 2011 to December 2012, 440 patients were randomized, and 320 were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. There was no significant difference in the rate of grade B/C fistula after PG versus PJ (20% vs 22%, P = 0.617). The overall incidence of grade B/C fistula was 21%, and the in-hospital mortality was 6%. Multivariate analysis of the primary endpoint disclosed soft pancreatic texture (odds ratio: 2.1, P = 0.016) as the only independent risk factor. Compared with PJ, PG was associated with an increased rate of grade A/B bleeding events, perioperative stroke, less enzyme supplementation at 6 months, and improved results in some quality of life parameters.

Conclusions:

The rate of grade B/C fistula after PG versus PJ was not different. There were more postoperative bleeding events with PG. Perioperative morbidity and mortality of pancreatoduodenectomy seem to be underestimated, even in the high-volume center setting.

Pancreaticopericardial Fistula: A Case Report and Literature Review

Purpose. Pancreaticopericardial fistula (PPF) is an extremely rare complication of acute or chronic pancreatitis. This paper presents a rare case of PPF and provides systematic review of existing cases from 1970 to 2014. Methods. A PubMed search using key words was performed for all the cases of PPF from January 1970 to December 2014. Fourteen cases were included in the study. The cases were reviewed for demographic characteristics, diagnostic modalities, and treatment. Descriptive analysis of these variables was performed. Results. Median age was 43 years. 78% were known alcoholics and 73.3% had chronic pancreatitis. Dyspnea was present in 78%. Cardiac tamponade was present in 53%; 75% of patients had known chronic pancreatitis (RR = 0.74). Surgery was associated with best treatment outcomes and 50% of patients who underwent endoscopic treatment survived. Conclusion. PPF is a rare disease. This paper indicates that acute cardiac tamponade in patients with history of alcoholism and chronic pancreatitis could be a sign of an existing pancreaticopericardial fistula and early surgical intervention could be life-saving.

Endotherapy is effective for pancreatic ductal disruption: A dual center experience

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Pancreatic duct (PD) disruptions occur as a result of different etiologies and can be managed medically, endoscopically, or surgically. The aim of this study was to provide an evaluation on the efficacy of endotherapy for treatment of PD disruption in a large cohort of patients and identify factors that predict successful treatment outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde pancreatography (ERP) for transpapillary pancreatic stent placement for PD disruption from 2008 to 2013 at two tertiary referral institutions. PD disruption was defined as extravasation of contrast from the pancreatic duct as seen on ERP. Therapeutic success was defined by resolution of PD leak on ERP, clinical, and/or imaging evaluation.

RESULTS

We evaluated 107 patients (58% male, mean age 53 years) with PD disruption. Etiologies of PD disruption were acute pancreatitis (36%), post-operative (31%), chronic pancreatitis (29%), and trauma (4%). PD disruption was successfully bridged by a stent in 45 (44%) patients. Two patients developed post-sphincterotomy bleeding, two had stent migration, and two patients died as a result of post-ERP related complications. Placement of a PD stent was successful in 103/107 (96%) patients. Therapeutic success was achieved in 80/107 (75%) patients. Non-acute pancreatitis etiologies and absence of complete duct disruption were independent predictors of therapeutic success.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic therapy using a transpapillary stent for PD disruption is safe and effective. Absence of complete duct disruption and non-AP etiologies determine a favorable endoscopic outcome.

Safety and efficacy of early drain removal and triple-drug therapy to prevent pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy

OBJECTIVE

Prior studies suggested that early drain removal prevented the development of pancreatic fistula (PF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), but there has been no corresponding prospective trial for distal pancreatectomy (DP). The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and efficacy of early drain removal and triple-drug therapy (TDT) with gabexate mesilate, octreotide and carbapenem antibiotics to prevent PF after DP in patients at high-risk of developing PF.

METHODS

A total 71 patients who underwent a DP were enrolled. We prospectively divided them into two groups: the late-removal group, in which the drain remained in place for at least for 5 days postoperatively (n = 30) and the early-removal group in which the drain was removed on postoperative day 1 (POD1) (n = 41). For the patients with a high drain amylase level (≥10,000 IU/L) and patients with symptomatic intraperitoneal fluid collection, our original TDT was introduced. The primary endpoint was the safety and efficacy of this management, and the secondary endpoint was the incidence of PF.

RESULTS

The incidence of clinical PF was significantly lower in the early-removal group (0% vs. the late removal 16%; p < 0.001). In the early-removal group, TDT was administered to 12 patients (29%) and none of the patients needed additional treatment after TDT.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative management after DP with early drain removal and TDT was safe and effective for preventing PF.

Anastomotic leakage after gastrointestinal surgery: diagnosis and management

Anastomotic leakage represents a major complication of gastrointestinal surgery, leading to increased postoperative morbidity; it the foremost cause of mortality after intestinal resection. Identification of risk factors is essential for the prevention of AL. AL can present with various clinical pictures, ranging from the absence of symptoms to life-threatening septic shock. Contrast-enhanced CT scan is the most complete investigation to define AL and its consequences. Early and optimal multidisciplinary management is based on three options: medical management, radiologic or endoscopic intervention, or surgical re-intervention. Prompt treatment should help decrease postoperative morbidity and mortality, with the choice depending on the septic status of the patient. If the patient is asymptomatic, treatment can be medical only, coupled with close surveillance. Interventional management is indicated when the fistula is symptomatic but not life-threatening. On the other hand, when the vital prognosis is engaged, surgery is indicated, emergently, associated with intensive care. Even more than their prevention, early and appropriate management counts most to decrease their consequences.

Are there preoperative factors related to a "soft pancreas" and are they predictive of pancreatic fistulas after pancreatic resection?

PURPOSE

Soft pancreatic parenchyma is the most widely recognized risk factor for pancreatic fistula. We conducted this study to clarify if there are preoperative factors related to a soft pancreatic remnant and to establish if they are useful for predicting pancreatic fistula.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent pancreatic resections at the Department of Surgical Sciences of the S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Bologna, Italy. The factors considered were sex, age, co-morbidities, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, characteristics of the pancreatic remnant, and preoperative diagnosis.

RESULTS

Data from 208 patients were recorded. The risk factors predictive of a soft pancreatic remnant were BMI >24 kg/m(2) (P = 0.011), a Wirsung duct size ≤3 mm (P < 0.001), and coexisting periampullary diseases (P < 0.001). Using these factors, we developed a risk score model that was validated by considering the pancreatic fistula rate. The overall and clinically relevant pancreatic fistula rate increased with increasing score values (P = 0.002 and P = 0.028, respectively). Using a score cut-off value of six points, patients with a score ≥6 were considered to be at high risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Body mass index >24 kg/m(2), a Wirsung duct size <3 mm, and preoperative diagnosis represented the preoperative factors related to a soft pancreas. These factors proved useful in the building of a risk score model to predict the incidence of pancreatic fistula.

Diagnosis and management of postoperative pancreatic fistula

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is the leading complication after partial pancreatic resection and is associated with increased length of hospital stay and resource utilization. The introduction of a common definition in 2005 by the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS), which has been since employed in the vast majority of reports, has allowed a reliable comparison of surgical results. Despite the systematic investigation of risk factors and of surgical techniques, the incidence of POPF did not change in recent years, whereas the associated mortality has decreased.

PURPOSE

The purposes of this review article were to summarize the current evidence on the diagnosis and management strategies of POPF and to provide a concise reference for the practicing surgeons and physicians.

CONCLUSION

The high incidence of POPF was accompanied by a shift from operative to non-operative management. However, the current management strategy is driven by the patient's condition and local expertise and is generally based on poor evidence. A randomized trial showed that enteral nutrition is superior to total parenteral nutrition, and pooled data of randomized trials failed to show any advantage of somatostatin analogs for accelerating fistula closure. The choice of percutaneous versus endoscopic drainage of peripancreatic collections remains arbitrary, and-when re-operation is needed-there are very few comparative data regarding local drainage with or without main pancreatic stenting as opposed to anastomotic revision or salvage re-anastomosis. The continuous development of specialist, high-volume units with appropriate resources and multidisciplinary experience in complication management might further improve the evidence and the outcomes.

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.

Amylase level in drains after pancreatoduodenectomy as a predictor of clinically significant pancreatic fistula

OBJECTIVES

Amylase level in drains (ALD) has been proposed as a predictor for the development of a clinically significant pancreatic fistula (CS-PF) in patients undergoing a major pancreatic surgery. This study aimed to determine if the ALD in patients who developed a CS-PF after pancreatoduodenectomy is higher than that for patients with transient fistulae and to establish a threshold value as a predictor of a CS-PF.

METHODS

From January 2002 to December 2012, all patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy were enrolled. At least 1 ALD measurement on postoperative day 3 was obtained. Pancreatic fistula (PF) was defined according to the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula. Both grade B and C PFs were considered as a CS-PF. We determined the cutoff value with a receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

A total of 135 patients were enrolled. Pancreatic fistula was diagnosed in 36 cases (26.7%). The ALD median values were the following: PF grade A, 1809 U/L; PF grade B, 19,710 U/L; and PF grade C, 27,590 U/L. A drain amylase value of 2820 U/L was determined to be the cutoff for the development of a CS-PF.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with CS-PF have higher values of ALD than patients who developed a mild/transient fistula. An ALD higher than 2820 U/L identifies patients likely to present a CS-PF.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of fibrin sealants for patients undergoing pancreatic resection

INTRODUCTION

Post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is a common complication after partial pancreatic resection, and is associated with increased rates of sepsis, mortality and costs. The role of fibrin sealants in decreasing the risk of POPF remains debatable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the literature regarding the effectiveness of fibrin sealants in pancreatic surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive database search was conducted. Only randomized controlled trials comparing fibrin sealants with standard care were included. A meta-analysis regarding POPF, intra-abdominal collections, post-operative haemorrhage, pancreatitis and wound infections was performed according to the recommendations of the Cochrane collaboration.

RESULTS

Seven studies were included, accounting for 897 patients. Compared with controls, patients receiving fibrin sealants had a pooled odds ratio (OR) of developing a POPF of 0.83 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.6-1.14], P = 0.245. There was a trend towards a reduction in post-operative haemorrhage (OR = 0.43 (95%CI: 0.18-1.0), P = 0.05) and intra-abdominal collections (OR = 0.52 (95%CI: 0.25-1.06), P = 0.073) in those patients receiving fibrin sealants. No difference was observed in terms of mortality, wound infections, re-interventions or hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of these results, fibrin sealants cannot be recommended for routine clinical use in the setting of pancreatic resection.