Abstract
Background: Pancreatic fistula is a complication in pancreatic surgery. It is important to predict its occurrence to guide postoperative management. There are few studies on the correlation between amylase levels in the drainage fluid and the risk of pancreatic fistula. The aim of the study was to determine whether the amylase level on postoperative day 3 can predict the severity of pancreatic fistula. Material and methods: A retrospective study was performed in patients who underwent duodenopancreatectomy to evaluate the relationship between the amylase value in intra-abdominal drainage on postoperative day 3 and the severity of pancreatic fistula. The relationship between surgical and conventional biochemical results was analyzed. Student's t-test was used for statistical analysis with a value of p<0.05 considered significant. Results: No significant differences or statistically significant correlations were found between the groups evaluated. Conclusion: Isolated measurement of amylase in draining fluid in the early postoperative period is not sufficient but is very useful in predicting the occurrence of FP associated with complications and prolonged hospital stay. Further research is required to reduce its incidence.