[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.