Duodenal pancreatectomy with occlusion of the pancreatic duct.

In 1978 partial duodenopancreatectomy with Ethibloc duct occlusion of the pancreatic remnant was introduced for use in patients with severe chronic cephalic pancreatitis. Our intention was to remove the largely destroyed part of the gland, and to induce controlled glandular atrophy in the residual portion in order to prevent further recurrence of pancreatitis. Since then this surgical procedure has been performed in 328 patients. The perioperative mortality was 1.2%, the complication rate requiring relaparotomy 7.1%. So far pancreatitis has recurred in only 2.2% of cases, due, we believe, to incomplete ductal block. Some 53% of the patients remained free of pain and symptoms, while 35% have occasional minor complaints. In a prospective follow-up study of 23 patients, Ethibloc duct occlusion was shown to be highly effective in inducing controlled atrophy of the gland and thereby terminating the inflammatory process. Endocrine function was preserved at the post-resectional level.