Less morbidity after introduction of a new departmental policy for patients who undergo open distal pancreatectomy.

Background: The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare morbidity and mortality before and after introduction of a new departmental policy for patients who undergo distal pancreatectomy.

Methods: We have introduced the use of an ultrasonically-activated device in distal pancreatectomy, an "early removal of drains" policy and perioperative management using a clinical pathway since May 2006. Group A consisted of 52 consecutive patients from 2000 to February 2006. Group B consisted of 57 consecutive patients from May 2006 to 2010.

Results: Although there was no difference in the fluid collection rate within 30 postoperative days (Group A, 44% vs. Group B, 35%), the rates of intra-abdominal abscess (A, 19% vs. B, 4%) and grade 3/4 of the Clavien classification (A, 23% vs. B, 9%) in Group B were significantly lower than in Group A (P < 0.05). Time of drain removal (median 3 days vs. 8 days) and length of in-hospital stay (median 8 days vs. 17 days) in Group B were significantly shorter than in Group A (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: The implementation of new departmental guidelines for distal pancreatectomy was closely associated with a low frequency of intra-abdominal abscess and grade 3/4 Clavien score, resulting in a shorter in-hospital stay.