Grade-C Postoperative Pancreatic Fistulas Are Associated with High Morbidity and Increased Risk in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Grade-C postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPfs) following pancreaticoduodenectomy are serious complications associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Researchers analyzed a national database of 26,552 patients who underwent this surgery and found that 1.2% of patients suffered from grade-C POPfs, while the rate of grade-B POPfs significantly increased over time. Grade-C POPfs were associated with several complications such as delayed gastric emptying, infections, respiratory issues, and renal complications. Diabetes mellitus was identified as a risk factor for developing grade-C POPfs. Further strategies are needed to improve outcomes and mitigate the risks associated with these complications.