Non-operative management of pancreatic injury

Background/purpose: Pancreatic injury is a rare complication of blunt abdominal trauma in pediatric populations. Non-operative management is increasingly common in pediatric pancreatic injury, using endoscopic interventions. We report our institutional experience with non-operative management of pediatric pancreatic trauma, with a focus on the role of endoscopic interventions. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of all cases of blunt pancreatic trauma in children presenting to our urban, academic, level I pediatric trauma center from 1996 to 2016. Results: We identified six cases of blunt pancreatic trauma in children aged 2-15 years. One patient required operative intervention for duodenal perforation, but no patients underwent pancreatic surgery. Endoscopic interventions were used in four cases to manage complications, such as pancreatic fluid collections and ductal stenosis. Conclusions: Pancreatic trauma can be managed safely and effectively using non-operative interventions in the pediatric population.