Endoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocyst in children-a long-term follow-up

Background

Literature on long-term outcome after endoscopic management of pediatric pancreatic pseudocyst is not available. The aim of the present study is to report long-term outcome after endoscopic drainage of pancreatic pseudocyst in children.

Methods

Nine patients younger than 15 years, subjected to endoscopic pseudocyst drainage, were included in this study (between 1994 and 2004). Eight patients were subjected to endoscopic cystogastrostomy and stenting, whereas 1 patient was subjected to cystoduodenostomy and stenting. A follow-up of patients was done at 1 month and at 2 to 10 years after drainage. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was done in 2 patients at the time of drainage, and it was repeated in both the patients at the time of final follow-up.

Results

Mean age of the patients was 9.6 years. Trauma was the most common cause (n = 8). Mean follow-up of these patients was 5.7 years (2-10 years). No recurrence was seen in any patient. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography revealed complete pancreatic duct block in prevertebral region in 2 posttraumatic patients, and it was persisting on repeat ERCP at final follow-up.

Conclusions

Endoscopic drainage of pancreatic pseudocyst is safe in children with a very good long-term outcome. Pancreatic duct block seen on ERCP may not be clinically important on long-term follow-up.