Novel and supplementary management of pancreatic fluid collections: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage

AIM To compare efficacy and safety of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided and surgical drainage in pancreatic fluid collection management. METHODS Data were obtained retrospectively from January 2012 to December 2016. Patients with pancreatic fluid collection were performed EUS-guided or surgical procedure. Main outcome measures including clinical efficiency, complication, duration of procedures, hospital stay and cost were analyzed. RESULTS Thirty-six patients were enrolled into the study, including 14 in endoscopic group while 22 in the surgical group. Twelve (86%) patients were treated successfully by endoscopic approach while 21 (95%) patients benefited through surgical procedure. Endoscopic treatment had higher recurrence and complication rates than surgery, resulting in more re-interventions. Meanwhile, duration of procedure, hospital stay and cost were significantly lower in endoscopic group. CONCLUSION Both approaches were effective and safe. EUS-guided approach should be the first-line treatment in mild and simple cases, while surgical approach should be considered as priority in severe and complex cases.