Reduction in post‐operative pancreatic fistula with polyethylene glycol and recombinant human albumin sealant following stapled distal pancreatectomy

Background Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) remains a significant cause of morbidity in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy (DP). The use polyethylene glycol (PEG) and recombinant human albumin sealant gel applied to the transected margin DP may reduce POPF rates was assessed. Methods A retrospective single centre cohort study patient at an Australian high volume tertiary institution between January 2015 2021. Rates stapled transection with PEG were compared other methods. Results total 54 cases identified for analysis, 16 combined staple line application (PEG group). Most control group had 92% (35 38), 47% (18 38) reinforcing buttress, or without glue types. Overall, 28 (52%) developed POPF, significantly lower rate (3 vs. 25 38 Control group; p = 0.003). Clinically Grade B/C (0 9 0.045), shorter median (range) length hospital stay (6 [4–14] days 10 [6–41] 0.04). Conclusion Stapled appears be associated clinically POPF.