The importance of MELD-Na and MELD 3.0 in predicting postoperative complications after pancreaticoduodenectomy

Author(s): Mert Mahsuni Sevinc*, Omer Akay, Mert Guler, Ceyda Turan Bektas, Erdem Kinaci, Mehmet Toptas, Selim Dogan, Cihad Tatar and Ufuk Oguz Idiz

Background: This study aims to assess whether MELD-Na and MELD 3.0 scores, commonly used for evaluating chronic liver disease severity and prioritizing transplant candidates, can predict early postoperative complications following pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods: Data from 102 patients who underwent elective pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic head masses were analyzed. MELDNa and MELD 3.0 scores were calculated 48 hours before surgery using preoperative blood tests. Postoperative complications, including Clavien-Dindo classifications, were recorded along with perioperative and 30-day outcomes.

Results: Higher MELD-Na and MELD 3.0 scores were significantly associated with an increased incidence of complications, including wound infections, higher Clavien-Dindo scores, and prolonged hospital stays. Notably, MELD 3.0 demonstrated superior predictive accuracy for pancreatic fistula compared to MELD-Na.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that elevated MELD-Na and MELD 3.0 scores, especially MELD 3.0, can serve as reliable predictors for postoperative complications and length of hospital stay in patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy.

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