Management of pancreatic trauma

The treatment of pancreatic injuries presents the surgeon with unusual diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Errors in the initial management of patients with injury to the pancreas may lead to life-threatening complications. The author suggests that only by maintaining a constant clinical suspicion of the presence of a pancreatic injury and by performing an orderly exploration of the pancreas when indicated can costly delays in treatment by avoided. A thoughtful approach to pancreatic drainage and resection will ensure optimal surgical care to the injured patient.