A delayed presentation of a giant traumatic pseudocyst of the pancreas

Abstract

Pancreatic trauma is an uncommon but potentially severe injury that can lead to serious complications such as pseudocyst formation. Optimal management remains unclear due to limited evidence. A 19-year-old male presented with progressive abdominal pain 15 days after blunt abdominal trauma. Imaging revealed a giant pancreatic pseudocyst (30 × 21.5 cm) secondary to a pancreatic laceration. Surgical cystogastrostomy was performed, draining 4700 mL of fluid. The patient had an uneventful recovery and remained symptom-free at 1-year follow-up. This case underscores the challenges in managing pancreatic pseudocysts following trauma. While endoscopic and percutaneous techniques are effective in selected cases, open surgical approaches remain appropriate in cases with complex anatomy. Further research is needed to guide treatment decisions.