Risk factors for delayed gastric emptying following distal pancreatectomy

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a frequent complication after pancreatoduodenectomy and other types of upper gastrointestinal surgery with published incidences as high as 60 %. The present study examines the incidence of DGE following distal pancreatic resection (DPR).

Between 2002 and 2014, 100 patients underwent conventional DPR at our department. DGE was classified according to the 2007 International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery definition. Patients were analyzed regarding severity of DGE, morbidity and mortality, length of hospital stay, and demographic factors.

Overall incidence of DGE was 24 %. No difference in age, gender, or other demographic factors was observed in patients with DGE. Perioperative characteristics (splenectomy rate, closure technique of the pancreatic remnant, operation time, blood loss and transfusion, ICU, ASA score) were comparable. Major complications were associated with DGE (11/24 patients (46 %) vs. 19/76 patients (25 %) without DGE) and the rate of pancreatic fistula was significantly higher in the group of patients with DGE (14/24 patients (58 %) vs. 27/76 patients (36 %), P = 0.047). In multivariate analysis, a periampullary malignancy was shown to be a significant factor for DGE development. DGE significantly prolonged hospital stay (14 vs. 22 days).

DGE is a substantial complication not only after pancreatoduodenectomy, but it also occurs frequently after DPR. Prevention of pancreatic fistula might reduce its incidence, especially in patients with malign pathology.