Distal pancreatectomy (DP) with or without splenectomy is commonly indicated for pancreatic body or tail lesions. Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains the commonest complication after DP. A pre-operatively placed pancreatic stent across papilla can decrease the pressure gradient between pancreatic duct and duodenum. Therefore, the pancreatic juice flow is redirected from the pancreatic transection plane and leakage from pancreatic stump is much reduced. This study aims to evaluate whether pre-operatively placed pancreatic stent can prevent POPF by a randomized controlled trial.

A randomised-controlled trial is performed to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative pancreatic duct stenting in preventing post-operative pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy with or without splenectomy. Patients will be randomised to pre-operative stent group or surgery alone group. Pre-operative pancreatic duct stenting will be performed 1-2 weeks before surgery. The stent will be removed 4 weeks after operation. The post-operative pancreatic fistula rate, morbidity, mortality and total length of stay were compared between the 2 groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age >18 years
• Elective distal pancreatectomy for primary pancreatic pathology

Exclusion Criteria:

• Informed consent not available
• Emergency distal pancreatectomy
• Presence of pancreatic duct stricture
• Presence of altered anatomy that precludes safe Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography (e.g. previous Billroth II gastrectomy)
• History of severe pancreatitis