Linear Stapling Device with Pre-attached Bioabsorbable Polyglycolic Acid Felt Reduces Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula After Distal Pancreatectomy

Abstract

The incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains high at approximately 30% of cases with distal pancreatectomy (DP) and is associated with higher incidence of life-threatening complications. However, the most appropriate closure technique for the pancreatic stump during DP remains controversial. We, herein, present details of the use of a linear stapling device with pre-attached bioabsorbable polyglycolic acid (PGA) felt for pancreatic stump closure during DP. Grade B or C POPF occurred in only one case (5%) among 22 consecutive patients.

Keywords: Polyglycolic acid (PGA) felt; distal pancreatectomy (DP); postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF).