Background: A disconnected distal pancreas (DDP) remnant is a morbid sequela of necrotizing pancreatitis. Definitive surgical management can be accomplished by either fistulojejunostomy (FJ) or distal pancreatectomy (DP). It is unclear which operative approach is superior with regard to short- and long-term outcomes.
Methods: Between 2002 and 2014, patients undergoing either FJ or DP for DDP were retrospectively identified at a center specializing in pancreatic diseases. Patient demographics, perioperative, and postoperative variables were evaluated.
Results: Forty-two patients with DDP secondary to necrotizing pancreatitis underwent either a FJ (n = 21) or DP (n = 21). Between the two cohorts, there were no significant differences in overall lengths of stay, pancreatic leak rates, or readmission rates (all p > 0.05). DP was associated with higher estimated blood loss, increased transfusion requirements, and worsening endocrine function (all p < 0.05). At a median follow-up of 18 months, four patients that underwent a FJ developed a recurrent fluid collection requiring re-intervention. Overall, FJ was successful in 80% of patients as compared to a 95% success rate for DP (p = 0.15).
Conclusions: Although DP was associated with higher intraoperative blood loss, increased transfusion requirements, and worsening of preoperative diabetes, this procedure provides superior long-term resolution of a DDP when compared to FJ.
Keywords: Disconnected duct syndrome; Distal pancreatectomy; Fistulojejunostomy; Necrotizing pancreatitis; Pancreatic duct disruption.