Risk Factors of Pancreatic Fistula after Pancreatoduodenectomy

Objective To determine the risk factors associated with development of pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Methods The clinical data of 123 consecutive patients who underwent PD from Dec. 1994 to Dec. 2003 were analysed retrospectively. Results The incidence of pancreatic fistula was 11.4% (14/123). Univariate analysis showed history of upper abdominal operation, texture of pancreas, postoperative serum hemoglobin level, type of pancreatojejunostomy and diameter of pancreatic duct were significantly associated with pancreatic fistula after PD. Multivariate analysis using Logistic regression identified four variables as independent factors associated with the occurrence of pancreatic fistula: history of upper abdominal operation, texture of pancreas, postoperative serum hemoglobin level and type of pancreatojejunostomy. Conclusion History of upper abdominal operation, soft texture of pancreas, postoperative serum hemoglobin level less than 90 g/L and routine invaginated pancreaticojejunostomy are main risk factors associated with development of pancreatic fistula after PD.