Pancreatitis-Related Encapsulated Fluid Collections Associated With a Pancreatic Duct Stent Retained for 13 Years in...

Pancreatic duct stenting is an established treatment for ductal decompression in obstructive chronic pancreatitis. However, very long-term stent retention may be associated with late complications, particularly in patients with advanced chronic pancreatitis. A 65-year-old man with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis underwent pancreatic duct stenting for a main pancreatic duct stricture, but follow-up was discontinued, and the stent remained in situ for approximately 13 years. He presented with fever and loss of appetite. Computed tomography showed diffuse pancreatic calcifications and pancreatitis-related encapsulated peripancreatic and pelvic fluid collections. The pelvic collection appeared relatively homogeneous, suggesting a pancreatic fluid leak-associated or pseudocyst-like collection rather than definitive walled-off necrosis. After removal of the retained stent, a new pancreatic duct plastic stent was placed. The collections improved after conservative treatment and stent exchange. This case highlights the need for strict surveillance after pancreatic duct stenting.