Pancreatic Duct Strictures

Abstract

The treatment of pancreatic duct strictures is based on an accurate assessment of the etiology of the disease, and then the degree of symptomatology. Our outline for therapy is as follows: Exclude a diagnosis of malignancy by using radiologic, endoscopic, histologic, and molecular biologic modalities. Once a benign stricture has been demonstrated, we favor a trial of endoscopic dilation and stent placement For the unresectable pancreatic neoplasm, in which an obstructive etiology for pain is suspected, a trial of endoscopic dilation and stent placement also should be considered. In benign pancreatic duct strictures complicated by biliary obstruction, and where the most durable treatment modality is sought, surgical intervention merits earlier consideration. Pancreatic duct stent placement should seldom be considered definitive therapy, and the risk of stent-induced duct injury must be weighed against potential therapeutic benefit.