Combined interventions on pancreatic ducts with external fistulas

Abstract

The present paper describes clinical observation of successful treatment of a patient with chronic calcifying pancreatitis complicated by an external pancreatic fistula. Abdominal surgery after laparotomy and cholecystectomy had to be limited to bursoomentostomy due to the bleeding tissues and severe blood loss. Combined endoscopic intervention through the external pancreatic fistula was used for the treatment. The performed interventions included stone extraction in Wirsung’s duct, dilation and stenting of the distal stricture of the pancreatic duct. The fistula closed, a pain-free period lasted for 3 years. Similar transfistula interventions were performed in 7 patients with chronic pancreatitis and external pancreatic fistulas, lithiasis in Wirsung's duct (n = 5) and pancreatic duct strictures (n = 6). A total of 17 procedures were performed, 7 of 8 fistulas were closed. Complications developed in 3 observations, no lethal outcome was registered.Conclusion. Transfistula interventions in pancreatic ducts with combined X-ray guidance, oral and transfistula endoscopy can be used to remove stones, dilate strictures and restore natural passage of pancreatic secretions as an independent treatment or preparation for planned abdominal surgery.