Isolated and complete traumatic rupture of the pancreas: A case report and a review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic trauma without injuries to other organs is uncommon, as reported in the reviewed literature. Diagnosis of pancreatic trauma might be difficult, due to unspecific signs and symptoms. The integrity of the main pancreatic duct is the crucial point in the management and outcome of patients with pancreatic trauma. PRESENTATION OF CASE: The authors report a case of delayed diagnosis after a complete traumatic rupture of the main pancreatic duct, successfully managed by surgical treatment. The authors performed a laparotomy with complete removal of necrotic pancreatic tissue at the site of rupture. The proximal pancreatic stump was hand-sewn with detached stitches and a disposable catheter was positioned into Wirsung's duct, a diversion of the distal stump with a Roux-en-y pancreatojejunal anastomosis was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. DISCUSSION: Traumatic injuries of the pancreas occur after blunt abdominal traumas or penetrating wounds with a ratio of 3:1. Isolated traumatic injuries of the pancreas are uncommon; and they are usually associated with injuries to other organs. Surgical solutions for the treatment of pancreas lesions vary and it is well known that a surgical procedure performed after a delayed diagnosis is associated with high mortality and morbidity, especially in pancreatic duct rupture. CONCLUSION: Pancreatic trauma is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for the trauma surgeon. The integrity of the main pancreatic duct is the most important determinant of outcome after injury to the pancreas and, in Wirsung's duct rupture, early surgery may improve it.