Uncommon and Rare Complications After Pancreatic Surgery

Despite the recent advances in perioperative care and operative technique, pancreatic surgery remains burdened with significant post-operative morbidity. Whilst most post-operative complications are driven by pancreatic fistula formation, there is a spectrum of other less-common complications that can occur. These complications are life threatening and can be associated with a prolonged hospital stay. They can range from vascular complications to bilioenteric anastomotic leak and abdominal wall failure. This chapter serves as a review of the pre-existing literature and includes the authors’ own personal experiences with managing uncommon complications following pancreatic surgery. A low threshold is required for intervention and failure to rescue is detrimental to patient outcome. Successful management is best achieved through a multi-disciplinary team approach.