Meta-analysis of invagination and duct-to-mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy: An update

Abstract Objective Duct-to-mucosa and invagination are two commonly used techniques of pancreaticojejunostomy (PJ) after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Previously, we conducted a systematic review comparing the safety and efficacy of the two PJ techniques. Here, we added new evidence and updated our previous conclusion. Methods We systematically searched multiple databases and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing duct-to-mucosa and invagination techniques of PJ. The quality of evidence was assessed using Jadad score, and reporting bias was evaluated using funnel plots. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. The primary outcome was pancreatic fistula, and the secondary outcomes included mortality, reoperation, morbidity and postoperative hospital stay. Trial sequential analysis was performed to calculate the required information size. Results Seven RCTs with 850 participants were included. No significant difference was detected in the rates of pancreatic fistula (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.53), mortality (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.40 to 2.18), reoperation (RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.69 to 2.20) and morbidity (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.16) between the two groups. However, patients who underwent duct-to-mucosa PJ had a significantly shorter postoperative hospital stay (mean difference −2.80, 95% CI -5.08 to −0.52). Trial sequential analysis showed that another 279 participants were needed for conclusive results. Conclusions Given the current evidence, duct-to-mucosa PJ did not decrease the rates of pancreatic fistula and other adverse events as compared to invagination PJ; however, it did reduce postoperative hospital stay. Further RCTs are needed.