Endoscopic sealing of pancreatic fistulas: four case reports and review of the literature

Scand J Gastroenterol. 2009;44(12):1491-6. doi: 10.3109/00365520903362610.

Abstract

We report four patients with pancreatic fistulas that failed to respond to conservative treatment. The fistulas were closed by endoscopic injection of N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (Histoacryl) diluted with an oily contrast agent (Lipiodol). A literature review revealed 32 similar cases in which endoscopic treatment with fibrin sealants (n = 11) or cyanoacrylate (n = 21) was used to close the fistulas. Based on our own experience and the literature review, we conclude that endoscopic sealing of pancreatic fistulas can be performed safely and effectively by experienced endoscopists in a tertiary centre. The procedure seems useful in the management of complicated pancreatic fistulas which do not respond to conservative treatment and may obviate the need for surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde / methods*
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Contrast Media / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Enbucrilate / administration & dosage
  • Enbucrilate / therapeutic use*
  • Endoscopy, Digestive System / methods
  • Hospitals, Teaching
  • Humans
  • Iodized Oil / administration & dosage
  • Iodized Oil / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pancreatic Fistula / etiology
  • Pancreatic Fistula / surgery*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Iodized Oil
  • Enbucrilate