Assessment of postoperative digestive function after pancreatico-duodenectomy: A comparison of reconstruction techniques

Background/Aims: Malabsorption is a frequent complication following pancreatico-duodenectomy (PD) for pancreatic carcinoma. Gastrojejunostomy followed by Billroth I type of reconstruction (PD III) has been advanced to prevent this disorder. We compared postoperative digestion and absorption determined by I-131-triolein, D-xylose and pancreatic function diagnostant (PFD) after extensive PD followed by one of two reconstructive procedures. Material and Methods: Postoperative digestive and absorptive functions in patients operated by Child's method (PD II) were compared with patients in whom the stomach emptied proximal to the pancreas and bile duct (PD III). Results: The absorption of D-xylose was significantly higher (1.24+/-0.36 g vs. 0.72+/-0.21 g) in the PD III group. No difference was noted in pancreatic endocrine secretion between the two groups. Biliary scintigraphy revealed increased bile secretion. in She PD III group. Conclusions: These results suggest that PD III is superior to PD II following extensive PD.