Clinical Report: Evaluation of a Modified Stent-Free Chen's U-Suture Method
Overview
This study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of a modified stent-free Chen's U-suture technique for pediatric pancreaticojejunostomy, reporting a 0% rate of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) in a small cohort.
Background
Pediatric pancreatic surgery is complicated by the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of children's pancreases, which increase the risk of postoperative complications such as pancreatic fistula. The modified Chen's U-suture technique aims to address these challenges by providing a stent-free approach to pancreaticojejunostomy.
Data Highlights
Parameter
Value
Median Operative Time
5 hours (range 3–8)
Mean Pancreaticojejunostomy Time
17.8 minutes (15–21)
Median Blood Loss
50 mL (20–100)
CR-POPF Rate
0% (95% CI: 0.0%–52.2%)
Drain Removal Days
Median 7 days (5–14)
Key Findings
All five pediatric procedures using the modified Chen's U-suture technique were successful.
No clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) occurred in the cohort.
Two patients experienced transient mild hyperamylasemia, managed conservatively.
Median follow-up was 25 months, with one child requiring pancreatic enzyme replacement for fat malabsorption.
Asymptomatic mild distal main pancreatic duct dilatation was observed in one patient at follow-up.
Clinical Implications
The modified stent-free Chen's U-suture technique is evaluated for safety and effectiveness in pediatric pancreatic surgery.
Conclusion
The findings demonstrate safety and effectiveness of the modified stent-free Chen's U-suture technique in a small patient cohort.
