Helical CT of the abdomen after pancreaticoduodenectomy: usefulness for detecting postoperative complications.

Background/Aims: Helical (spiral) computed tomography (CT) decreases scanning time and respiratory motion artifact. These characteristics are convenient for the evaluation of postoperative intra-abdominal conditions. We investigated the usefulness of helical CT in detecting complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Material and Methods : Helical CT scans were carried out in 21 patients with symptoms suggesting postoperative complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Twenty-one patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy were examined postoperatively by helical CT scans. Findings were correlated with the subsequent clinical course. Results: Abnormal findings were detected by helical CT scan in 16 (76%) of21 patients. These included 13 patients with fluid collection, 7 with localized liver infarction, 5 with intra-abdominal abscess, 3 with pleural effusion or ascites, and 2 with pseudo-aneurysms or wound abscesses. Liver infarctions were found in 7 of 10 patients who underwent combined resection of the portal and/or superior mesenteric veins, but not in any of 11 patients without combined vascular resection. Conclusion: Helical CT was useful in evaluating intra-abdominal conditions and detecting complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy.