ObjectiveThis study summarizes the latest research on the use of inflammatory markers to predict clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF), and explores the impact of perioperative inflammatory regulation on CR-POPF, providing references for early warning and individualized intervention for CR-POPF. MethodsA systematic review and summary of relevant literature from the past decade on the early prediction and diagnosis of CR-POPF using inflammatory biomarkers. ResultsThe inflammatory cascade triggered by pancreatic surgery plays a significant role in the development and progression of CR-POPF. Numerous studies had confirmed that following pancreatic surgery, inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), inflammatory cells, and other inflammatory markers had significant predictive and diagnostic value for early CR-POPF. Additionally, studies had shown that dynamic monitoring of the trends and magnitude of changes in these inflammatory markers, as well as the establishment of predictive models incorporating inflammatory indicators, could enhance the accuracy of predicting CR-POPF. Furthermore, appropriate anti-inflammatory therapy during the perioperative period plays a positive role in the prevention and treatment of CR-POPF. ConclusionsEarly prediction of CR-POPF is crucial for improving postoperative clinical outcomes and short-term prognosis in patients. Traditional inflammatory markers such as IL-6, CRP and PCT have unique value in the early prediction and diagnosis of CR-POPF. Dynamic monitoring can reflect changes in disease status, thereby influencing clinical management. Future research should further clarify and standardize the predictive timepoints and threshold criteria for inflammatory markers, and explore novel inflammatory markers to provide more accurate and comprehensive guidance for early risk stratification and personalized management of pancreatic fistula in clinical practice.