Choice of the optimal pancreaticojejunal anastomosis technique: how can we improve patient safety in pancreatic surgery?

Background/purpose: The cause of the morbidity and mortality following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) in the surgical treatment of benign and malignant diseases of the periampullary region is leakage from the pancreaticojejunal anastomosis. The size of the main pancreatic duct and the texture of the remnant pancreas are very important factors for a secure pancreaticojejunal anastomosis.

Methods: A new technique was developed for patients having pancreatic ducts smaller than 3 mm and a hard remnant pancreas.

H pylori: Treatment for the patient only or the whole family?

Aim: To compare the effects of treatment of H pylori-infected individuals with the effects of treatment of individuals as well as all H pylori-infected family members.

Methods: H pylori-positive patients with similar demographic specifications were prospectively randomized with respect to treatment, with a triple regimen of either patients and all H pylori-positive family members living togetherI (group I) or patients only (group II). Nine months after treatment, all patients were assessed for H pylori positivity.