External Pancreatic Stent in Pancreaticojejunostomy

The role of external pancreatic duct drainage in managing patients with a soft pancreas is particularly important, as these patients are at a heightened risk of developing postoperative complications. By providing an external route for pancreatic secretions, external pancreatic duct drainage may help to reduce the enzymatic activity at the anastomosis site and promote better healing.

In addition to reducing the incidence of post operative pancreatic fistula, external pancreatic duct drainage may have other potential benefits, such as decreasing the length of hospital stay, reducing the need for additional interventions, and improving overall patient quality of life. However, these potential benefits must be weighed against the risks and drawbacks of external pancreatic duct drainage, including the potential for stent-related complications and the need for an additional procedure to remove the stent.

•After being informed about the study and potential risks, all patients giving written consent. Patients who meet the eligibility requirements will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to external pancreatic drainage group and no external pancreatic drainage group.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) for various indications (e.g., pancreatic cancer, ampullary cancer, etc.).
• Patients with a confirmed soft pancreas texture, as determined intraoperatively by the surgeon.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with a hard or fibrotic pancreas, as determined intraoperatively by the surgeon.
• Patients with severe uncontrolled comorbidities (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease, renal failure).
• Pregnancy or lactation.