Successful ERCP for management of traumatic pancreatic disruption in a patient with situs inversus

Abstract

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) is an important tool for treatment of pancreaticobiliary diseases. However, ERCP may be difficult in patients who have altered gastrointestinal anatomy due to congenital or surgical reasons. A 40-year-old male with HIV infection presented with abdominal pain following abdominal trauma. The patient was diagnosed to have traumatic pancreatic injury and underlying situs inversus. The pancreatic fluid collection was drained using radiology guided pigtail placement done for the symptoms of abdominal pain and vomiting. The resulting external pancreatic fistula was successfully managed with ERCP and stenting. The patient improved with disappearance of ascites and resolution of pigtail output which was then removed. We report the technique used for ERCP in this patient. We also review the literature on pancreatic endotherapy in patients with situs inversus. The published literature suggests that with modifications in the standard ERCP technique like mirror image technique, 180 degree turn technique, left lateral technique etc. these patients can be managed successfully.

Keywords: ERCP; Pancreatic trauma; endoscopy; fistula; pancreatic stent; situs inversus.

Figure 1.

Computed tomography showing situs inversus with pancreatic disruption and fluid collection.

Figure 2.

Endoscopic image of the papilla in the patient.

Figure 3.

Pancreatogram showing duct disruption in the region of pancreatic neck.