An Evaluation of a New Technique Utilizing a Biologic Glue and Tissue Patch to Seal the Cut Edge of the Pancreas Following Removal of the Tail of the Pancreas

Following standard surgical exploration, the pancreatic gland will be mobilized appropriately to the level of transaction in the pancreatic neck, body or tail. The gland may be divided by stapling device, electrocautery or sharp division. Suture material will be at the discretion of the surgeon but may include absorbable or non-absorbable braided on mono-filament. Those patients randomized to autologous falciform patch will have the falciform membrane harvested. The falciform patch will be laid over the suture line of the resected pancreatic stump and secured to the pancreatic capsule utilizing #4-0 PDS suture placed at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions. Fibrin glue (Vitagel) will be utilized to fill the potential space within this membranous capsule. Fibrin glue will be prepared as per standard instructions. Drains will be placed in the splenic bed and/or adjacent to the stump of the pancreas for postoperative fluid evacuation.

Following standard surgical exploration, the pancreatic gland will be mobilized appropriately to the level of transaction in the pancreatic neck, body or tail. The gland may be divided by stapling device, electrocautery or sharp division. Suture material will be at the discretion of the surgeon but may include absorbable or non-absorbable braided on mono-filament.