Endoscopic Pancreatic Duct Stenting
ERCP-guided stent placement to relieve pancreatic duct obstruction and reduce chronic pancreatitis pain.
What is Endoscopic Pancreatic Duct Stenting?
Endoscopic pancreatic duct stenting is performed via ERCP to treat strictures and obstructing stones in the main pancreatic duct of chronic pancreatitis patients. A plastic stent placed across the stricture allows pancreatic secretions to drain freely, relieving ductal hypertension and chronic pain. Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi performs ERCP-guided pancreatic stenting as first-line interventional treatment before considering surgical drainage. Stents are exchanged every 3 months to prevent blockage.
How the Procedure Works
MRCP Planning
MRCP defines ductal anatomy, stricture location, and stone burden. ERCP is both diagnostic and therapeutic in the same session.
Pancreatic Sphincterotomy
Under fluoroscopic guidance, pancreatic sphincterotomy performed to allow ductal access.
Stone Extraction
Ductal stones fragmented by ESWL if large, then removed by balloon or basket during ERCP.
Stent Placement
Plastic stent placed across dominant stricture into the pancreatic duct. Stents exchanged every 3 months to prevent occlusion.
Reassessment
Symptom response evaluated at 12 months. Surgical drainage offered if stenting fails to control pain adequately.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Non-surgical — avoids morbidity of open pancreatic drainage surgery initially
- →Relieves ductal hypertension providing meaningful pain reduction in most patients
- →Outpatient stent exchanges without repeat major procedures
- →Identifies responders versus those requiring surgical drainage
Pancreatic duct stenting gives patients a non-surgical option for pain relief. We use it as a first-line intervention and escalate to surgical drainage only for those who do not respond adequately.
— Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi, Senior Consultant Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
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