Management of Pancreatic Pseudocysts

Shin, Dong Ha; Shin, Jun Ho; Kang, Yong Won; Park, Yong Lai; Kim, Heung Dae; Kim, Yong Shin; Han, Won Kon; Pae, Won Kil

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Pseudocysts of the pancreas are a localized collection of fluid occurring within pancreatic mass or peripancreatic region and are enclosed by a fibrous tissue wall. The diagnosis and follow-up of the disease has been facilitated with the advent of ultrasound and computed tomographic scanning. In terms of therapy, surgery was the only option available in the past. Recently, new me thods such as percutaneous catheter drainage and endoscopic cystenterostomy are used. The aim o this study was to review the characteristics and results of various therapeutic methods for the management of pancreatic pseudocysts.
METHODS
We reviewed retrospectively 42 cases of pancreatic pseudocysts admitted at the Kangbuk Samsung Hospital from January, 1985 to December, 1997
RESULTS
Twenty-six patients (61.9%) were managed non-operatively, and the remaining 16 patients were treated operatively. Twenty-seven patients (64.3%) had showed complete resolution of pseudo cysts ultrasonographically or roentgenographically with a mean follow-up period of 8.9 months. One operative and seven underlying disease-related deaths occurred.
CONCLUSIONS
There are various management methods for pancreatic pseudocysts such as expectant treatment, operation, percutaneous catheter drainage and endoscopic cystoenterostomy. Thus, it is important to choose the appropriate management method considering the status of each individual patient.