Pancreatic trauma: a simplified management guideline
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 1, 2026

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Debridement and Drainage for Pancreatic Abscess
Published on: March 15, 2024
J H Patton1, S P Lyden, M A Croce
1Department of Surgery, University of Tennessee, Memphis, USA.
Introduction:
Recent literature supports a conservative trend in the management of pancreatic injuries. Contrary to this trend, some recommend defining ductal integrity by pancreatography, implying that the results alter management. This study examines our recent 5-year experience with a simplified approach to all pancreatic injuries.
Methods:
Retrospective analysis of patients sustaining pancreatic injuries was performed.
Results:
One hundred thirty-four patients were identified. Overall mortality was 13%, and pancreatic-related mortality was 2%. Analyses were based on 124 pancreatic injuries among patients who survived >12 hours. Thirty-seven proximal injuries were treated with drainage alone, with a pancreatic morbidity of 11%. Eighty-seven distal pancreatic injuries occurred, 54 with indeterminate ductal status. Twenty-four had high probability for duct injury and were treated by distal resection; 30 with a low probability of ductal injury were drained. Pancreatic morbidity was not different between these groups.
Conclusions:
Pancreatic injuries including those with indeterminate ductal status can be successfully managed with low morbidity and mortality using this simplified management protocol.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction