Impact of gastric resection and enteric anastomotic configuration on delayed gastric emptying after pancreaticoduodenectomy: a network meta-analysis of randomized trials

Introduction Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is frequent after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Several randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have explored operative strategies to minimise DGE, however, the optimal combination of gastric resection approach, anastomotic route, and configuration, role of Braun enteroenterostomy remains unclear. Methods MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases were systematically searched for RCTs comparing gastric resection (Classic Whipple, pylorus-resecting, and pylorus-preserving), anastomotic route (antecolic vs retrocolic) and configuration (Billroth II vs Roux-en-Y), and enteroenterostomy (Braun vs no Braun). A random-effects, Bayesian network meta-analysis with non-informative priors was conducted to determine the optimal combination of approaches to PD for minimising DGE. Results Twenty-four RCTs, including 2526 patients and 14 approaches were included. There was some heterogeneity, although inconsistency was low. The overall incidence of DGE was 25.6% (n = 647). Pylorus-resecting, antecolic, Billroth II with Braun enteroenterostomy was associated with the lowest rates of DGE and ranked the best in 35% of comparisons. Classic Whipple, retrocolic, Billroth II with Braun ranked the worst for DGE in 32% of comparisons. Pairwise meta-analysis of retrocolic vs antecolic route of gastro-jejunostomy found increased risk of DGE with the retrocolic route (OR 2.1, 95% CrI; 0.92 - 4.7). Pairwise meta-analysis of Braun enteroenterostomy found a trend towards lower DGE rates with Braun compared to no Braun (OR 1.9, 95% CrI; 0.92 - 3.9). Having a Braun enteroenterostomy ranked the best in 96% of comparisons. Conclusion Based on existing RCT evidence, a pylorus-resecting, antecolic, Billroth II with Braun enteroenterostomy may be associated with the lowest rates of DGE.