Sandostatin for control of catheter drainage of pancreatic pseudocyst

Primary treatment for pancreatic pseudocyst is evolving from surgical intervention to needle aspiration with catheter drainage. The latter treatment results in a similar rate of resolution but has less patient morbidity. This study evaluated the adjuvant role of Sandostatin, which inhibits basal and stimulated pancreatic secretion, in the management of three patients with pancreatic pseudocysts who had prolonged catheter drainage subsequent to percutaneous drainage. Inhibition of secretion occurred in all three patients, as evidenced by decrease in catheter output, which allowed the catheter to be removed. All three patients have remained asymptomatic for 9, 10, and 15 months, respectively. In summary, Sandostatin decreased persistent catheter drainage from chronic pancreatic pseudocysts.