Pancreas Divisum (cont.)
How is pancreas divisum diagnosed?
The most accurate test to diagnose pancreas divisum is ERCP, which can
demonstrate the presence of two separately draining pancreatic ducts. However,
ERCP itself sometimes can cause attacks of pancreatitis. Other tests that can
help diagnose pancreas divisum without the risk of causing pancreatitis include
endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
How is pancreas divisum treated?
Pancreas divisum without symptoms needs no treatment.
Treatment of patients with abdominal pain and recurrent pancreatitis
attributable to pancreas divisum has not been well established. Some doctors
will attempt sphincterotomy (cutting of the minor papilla during ERCP to enlarge
its opening). Others will insert a stent during ERCP into the duct to prevent
duct blockage. These procedures are not risk free. Therefore, patients with
symptomatic pancreas divisum are best
evaluated and treated by doctors in centers experienced in treating pancreatic
diseases.
Last Editorial Review: 11/14/2005
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- Ultrasound - Learn an ultrasound procedure, and conditions and diseases it assists in diagnosing and screening like tumors, cysts, heart conditions and more.
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