The Use of Interventional Radiology Techniques in the Treatment of Pancreatic Fistula.

One of the complications of pancreatic disease is the formation of pancreatic fistulae. The presence of fistula leads to body wasting and cachexia. The standard treatment is intubation of the Wirsung duct and in cases where there are no improvements the next proposed form of treatment is surgery. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of pancreatic fistula closure using interventional radiology techniques. In 2009 to 2014, 46 patients diagnosed with pancreatic fistula were treated with interventional radiology techniques. Treatment consisted of vascular coil implanted at the entry of the fistula and then sealed with tissue glue adhesive during endoscopic procedure. Technical success of vascular coil implantation and the use of tissue glue adhesive were reported in all patients. Pancreatic fistula recurred in 7 patients (15.2%). The latter group of patients underwent statistical analysis to determine what the risk factors in recurring pancreatic fistulas were. The results indicate a significant relationship between etiology of the fistula and treatment effect.

IN CONCLUSION: (1) the use of interventional radiology methods in the closure of pancreatic fistula is an effective and safe procedure; and (2) the recurrence of fistula is dependent on the etiology and often occurs after surgery or trauma.