Mind the tributary of the canal: Are stents necessary for insulinoma enucleation in proximity to a prominent Duct of Santorini: A case report and literature review

Medicine (Baltimore). 2022 Oct 28;101(43):e31211. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000031211.

Abstract

Rationale: We describe a case of insulinoma located extremely close to the accessory pancreatic duct (APD), but away from the main pancreatic duct (MPD). Previous studies showed insulinoma enucleation is a safe procedure for small benign tumors >3 mm distant from the MPD. However, in this case enucleation of the tumor led to unanticipated APD injury and grade B post-operative pancreatic fistula (POPF). We provide detailed records of clinical management and argue that enucleation of tumors near APD needs to be carefully weighed.

Patient concerns: The patient experienced a sudden increase of abdominal drain fluid and prolonged drainage time after a regular insulinoma enucleation surgery.

Diagnosis: APD damage during the enucleation.

Interventions: Drain fluid amylase concentration were regularly recorded and prolonged somatostatin analogs were administered.

Outcomes: Amount of abdominal drain gradually decreased and the drain tube was removed on postoperative 37.

Lessons: Benign pancreatic tumor close to the APD need to be evaluated carefully and clinical evidence is warranted to affirm the necessity of placing a pancreatic duct stent before the surgery.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Drainage / methods
  • Humans
  • Insulinoma* / pathology
  • Pancreatectomy / methods
  • Pancreatic Ducts / pathology
  • Pancreatic Ducts / surgery
  • Pancreatic Fistula / etiology
  • Pancreatic Fistula / pathology
  • Pancreatic Fistula / surgery
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Postoperative Complications / surgery
  • Stents / adverse effects
  • Treatment Outcome