Preoperative stratification of pancreas-related morbidity after the Whipple procedure

Int Surg. 2004 Jan-Mar;89(1):39-45.

Abstract

Morbidity and mortality after pancreatoduodenectomy are greatly related to dehiscence of pancreatojejunostomy. We have analyzed risk factors of significance for and prediction of pancreas-related morbidity. We have retrospectively analyzed 122 patients. The relationship of fibrosis of pancreas, exocrine function, and diameter of pancreatic duct to pancreas-related morbidity was evaluated. Computer-aided morphometric analysis and the pancreatic elastase-1 stool test were used. Univariate analysis showed that the diameter of the main pancreatic duct and postoperative amylasemia were different in patients with and without pancreatic complications (P = 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). Pancreatic exocrine function was reduced and fibrosis was higher in patients without pancreatic complications (P = 0.003 and P = 0.026, respectively). Logistic regression analysis revealed exocrine pancreatic function as an independent risk factor. Pancreas-related morbidity is influenced by pancreatic fibrosis, diameter of pancreatic duct, and exocrine function. Preoperative evaluation of exocrine function allows detection of patients with minimal risk for pancreas-related morbidity.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Anastomosis, Surgical
  • Fibrosis
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Middle Aged
  • Pancreas / pathology
  • Pancreatic Diseases / etiology*
  • Pancreatic Function Tests
  • Pancreaticoduodenectomy / adverse effects*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors