Objective: To test by randomized prospective multicenter trial the hypothesis that
pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) without the use of intraperitoneal drainage does not
increase the frequency or severity of complications. Background: Some surgeons have
abandoned the use of drains placed during pancreas resection. Methods: We randomized
137 patients to PD with (n= 68, drain group) and without (n= 69, no-drain group) the use of
intraperitoneal drainage and compared the safety of this approach and spectrum of …

To the Editor: I would like to congratulate George Van Buren and colleague for presenting
level I evidence on the controversial topic of intraperitoneal drainage after
pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). With a randomized prospective multicenter trial they
concluded that omission of intraperitoneal drainage in all cases of PD increases the
frequency and severity of all complications. 1 Omitting intraperitoneal drainage after PD is
well described in retrospective studies and a single-center randomized controlled trial …