Cholecystoenteric anastomosis with the EEA stapler for cancer of the pancreas.

The integrity of a stapled anastomosis of the small bowel to the gallbladder with malignant distal biliary obstruction was investigated. Seven dogs were studied during a 52 week period following completion of a cholecystoenterostomy (Roux-Y) with an EEA stapler for bypass of a ligated common bile duct. A widely patent and secure anastomotic line was documented. Three human patients with unresectable cancer of the head of the pancreas who underwent stapled cholecystojejunostomies received excellent palliation as well. Cholecystojejunostomy with the EEA stapler is a rapid and safe procedure for unresectable, malignant distal biliary obstruction.