Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Debridement and Drainage for Pancreatic Abscess
Published on: March 15, 2024
Two Patients with Chronic Pancreatitis Complicated by a Pancreaticopleural Fistula
Jordy J S Kiewiet1, Marlous Moret, Willem L Blok
1Departments of Surgery, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Two patients presented with dyspnea and signs of chronic pancreatitis. Patient B had pleural effusion on chest X-ray. Patient A developed pleural effusion during the course of disease. On further analysis these pleural effusions showed elevated amylase concentrations. This finding suggested the diagnosis of a pancreaticopleural fistula which was confirmed by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. Because of the distinct localization of the fistulas the patients were treated differently. In patient A an endoprosthesis was successfully placed in the pancreatic duct, and patient B underwent distal pancreatic resection. Considering the rarity of pancreaticopleural fistula, there is no consensus on diverse aspects of treatment, such as length of treatment with octreotide. However, a rationale for the distinction between fistulas suited for treatment with endoprosthesis or surgery seems to provide some grip.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology