Laparoscopic cystogastrostomy for pancreatic pseudocyst is safe and effective

Between March 1997 and March 1998, three consecutive patients underwent lap aroscopic cystogastrostomy for persistent giant retrogastric pancreatic pse udocyst complicating an attack of acute pancreatitis. The mean cyst diamete r was 15 +/- 1 cm (range 14-16). The procedure was performed with four troc ars. The anterior wall of the stomach was opened longitudinally. The pseudo cyst was entered through the posterior wall of the stomach. A cystogastrost omy was created by suturing the margins of the communication by interrupted nonabsorbable sutures. The mean operative time was 123 +/- 15 min, and the re were no postoperative complications. The mean postoperative hospital sta y was 4 +/- 1 1 days. Computed tomography demonstrated complete resolution of the pseudocyst. Laparoscopic cystogastrostomy represents a good therapeu tic option for persistent retrogastric pancreatic pseudocyst.