Safety of Blumgart´s Anastomosis During Traverso Operation is Independent of Diagnosis and Risk Factors for Pancreaticojejunal Anastomotic Failure

Background : The partial pancreaticoduodenectomy, either known as pylorus-preserving Traverso-Longmire procedure, is a sophisticated operation which is associated with a high morbidity. Morbidity is primarily caused by leakage of the pancreatic anastomosis with its consecutive complications like fistula. We investigated the safety of the Blumgart´s anastomosis during Traverso operation and analysed well-established risk factors regarding an association to pancreatic anastomotic failure. Methods : In this retrospective study we included 133 consecutive patients, who underwent a Traverso-Longmire operation from 2007-2014. Analysis contained risk factors (gender, age, ASA, BMI, final diagnosis, prolonged jaundice, presurgical pancreatic duct stenting, operating room time, postoperative morbidity, length of postoperative hospital stay) hospital mortality, surgical and perioperative management. Chi-Square Test was used to analyze a statistical significance. Results : The overall pancreatic anastomotic failure rate was n=21/133 (15,8%). Most events were pancreatic leakage grade A (n=14/133; 10,5%). Grade B occurred in 5 cases (n=5/133; 3,8%), grade C occurred in 2 cases (n=2/133; 1,5%). Mortality was 1,5% (n=2/133). No suggestible or independent risk factors were detected as predictors of postoperative anastomotic failure. Conclusion : The Blumgart anastomosis during Traverso operation is a safe technique and its feasibility is independent of diagnosis and risk factors for pancreaticojejunal anastomotic failure.