Background/aims: In chronic pancreatitis patients with an inflammatory mass of the pancreatic head receiving pancreatoduodenectomy, postoperative quality of life, including nutritional status, has become important. Pre- and postoperative evaluation of pancreatic function is essential as an effective means of proper nutritional management of patients following pancreatoduodenectomy.
Methodology: Fifteen patients with chronic pancreatitis and inflammatory mass of the pancreatic head who had received standard pancreatoduodenectomy were enrolled in this investigation. All patients had their biliary and pancreatic ducts reconstructed according to Child's arrangement. Furthermore, all patients had smooth postoperative courses and were assessed for the pancreatojejunostomy by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography at least a month after the initial operation. Exocrine pancreas functions were clinically assessed with various clinical items and two indirect pancreatic function tests: the fecal elastase test and the Bentiromide test. Endocrine pancreas functions were assessed using serum C-peptide level, HbA1 level and the need for hypoglycemic therapy.
Results: The results indicated that the pancreatojejunostomies of all patients are patent magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. All patients benefited from the selected symptom relief and various clinical parameters, including medications, dietary restrictions, body mass index and plasma albumin levels, experiencing pain relief and improved exocrine and endocrine functions.
Conclusions: Pancreatic function did not deteriorate after pancreatoduodenectomy for chronic pancreatitis with an inflammatory mass of pancreatic head, while quality of life was significantly improved.