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Pancreatic pseudocysts: cause, therapy, and results
American Journal of Surgery
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Pancreatic pseudocysts are a common complication of pancreatitis, often linked to alcohol abuse. While diagnosis relies on imaging, surgical treatment, though safe, carries risks of complications and recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Pancreatic pseudocysts are a frequent complication of pancreatitis.
- Chronic alcohol abuse is a significant etiological factor, noted in 78% of cases.
- Presenting signs and symptoms are often nonspecific, complicating early diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the management and outcomes of patients with pancreatic pseudocysts.
- To evaluate the diagnostic modalities and treatment strategies for pancreatic pseudocysts.
- To identify factors associated with morbidity and recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 69 patients diagnosed with pancreatic pseudocysts.
- Analysis of diagnostic methods, including ultrasonography and computerized axial tomography (CT).
- Categorization of management strategies: conservative, internal drainage, external drainage, pancreatic resection, and needle aspiration.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonography and CT scans were the primary diagnostic tools.
- Conservative management led to resolution in 11 of 20 patients.
- Surgical intervention in 49 patients resulted in 18 complications and a 4% mortality rate; 10 patients experienced recurrence.
Conclusions:
- Pancreatic pseudocysts remain a significant complication of pancreatitis.
- Infected pseudocysts are a major driver of postoperative morbidity.
- While surgical therapy is generally safe, it is associated with considerable morbidity and recurrence rates, with recurrent pseudocysts often appearing in new locations.