Management of penetrating pancreatic injuries: subtotal pancreatectomy using the auto suture stapler.

Penetrating injuries of the pancreas have been accompanied by significant morbidity and mortality. A technique using the TA-55 Auto Suture Stapler (United States Surgical Corp., Stamford, CT) in patients with pancreatic trauma has been developed and employed clinically. The technical aspects of this simplified technique and its role in the prevention of postoperative complications of pancreatectomy are reviewed. This approach supports an aggressive and complete surgical evaluation of pancreatic injuries.