Effect of antecolic or retrocolic reconstruction of the gastro/duodenojejunostomy on delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is one of the most frequent complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of antecolic versus retrocolic reconstruction of gastro/duodenojejunostomy on DGE after PD. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing antecolic versus retrocolic reconstruction of gastro/duodenojejunostomy on DGE after PD were eligible for inclusion. Pooled estimates of treatment effect were calculated using either the fixed effects model or random effects model. RESULTS Five RCTs involving 534 randomized patients were eligible. The comparison of DGE showed no significant difference (odds ratio, 0.66; 95% confidence interval, 0.32 to 1.33; P = 0.24). The antecolic and retrocolic groups also had comparable outcomes for clinical parameters related to DGE, other complications, hospital mortality, and length of hospital stay. CONCLUSIONS The route of gastro/duodenojejunostomy reconstruction has no impact on DGE after PD. Therefore, the choice of reconstruction route should be selected according to the surgeon's preference.