Endoscopic therapy for pancreatic duct leaks and disruptions

Abstract

Pancreatitis, whether acute or chronic, can lead to a plethora of complications, such as fluid collections, pseudocysts, fistulas, and necrosis, all of which are secondary to leakage of secretions from the pancreatic ductal system. Partial and side branch duct disruptions can be managed successfully by transpapillary pancreatic duct stent placement, whereas patients with disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome require more complex endoscopic interventions or multidisciplinary care for optimal treatment outcomes. This review discusses the current status of endoscopic management of pancreatic duct leaks and emerging concepts for the treatment of disconnected pancreatic duct syndrome.

Keywords: Acute pancreatitis; Chronic pancreatitis; Computed tomography; Endoscopic ultrasound; Pancreatic sphincterotomy; Pseudocyst; Stent.