The pancreas is an essential organ producing digestive enzymes and blood sugar regulating hormones. Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) can cause severe, debilitating abdominal pain radiating straight to the back.
Common Pancreatic Disorders
- Acute Pancreatitis: Sudden inflammation caused by gallstones slipping into the ampulla of Vater or heavy alcohol consumption.
- Chronic Calcific Pancreatitis: Long-term destruction leading to pancreatic duct stone formation and chronic intractable pain.
- Pancreatic Pseudocysts: Fluid collections resulting from severe pancreatic injury or recurrent inflammation.
Surgical Interventions
For chronic pancreatitis with ductal dilation, Frey's Procedure or Lateral Pancreaticojejunostomy (LPG) provides long-lasting pain relief. Pseudocysts are managed with cysto-gastrostomy or endoscopic cyst drainage.