Evolving Role of Drains, Tubes and Stents in Pancreatic Surgery

As recently as 30 years ago, major pancreatic resections were associated with morbidity and mortality rates that were considered prohibitive by many. Over the last several decades, through better training, technical advances, and the development of intensive perioperative care and interventional endoscopy and radiology, these procedures have become significantly safer. Pancreaticoduodenectomy is now associated with postoperative mortality as low as 1% in many high-volume centers.