Our gastroenterology team specializes in disorders that can harm the pancreas and disrupt its ability to help digest food. These include the following.
Acute pancreatitis, a sudden inflammation of the pancreas. Although attacks are commonly caused by gallstones or alcohol use, in many cases the cause is uncertain. With proper medical care you may avoid potentially life-threatening complications, including lung or kidney failure, and prevent future attacks.
Chronic pancreatitis, long-term inflammation that permanently damages the pancreas and increases your risk for pancreatic cancer. While there is no cure for chronic pancreatitis, the sooner you’re diagnosed, the sooner you can get care to improve your quality of life. We offer treatments to relieve pain and lower your risk of problems such as malnutrition, diabetes, and bone fractures.
Pancreatic cysts, fluid-filled sacs that grow on or in your pancreas. Some cysts are harmless, but others may become cancerous. If your type of cyst increases your risk for pancreatic cancer, we’ll create a plan for careful monitoring.
Gallstones, hardened clumps of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. If gallstones grow, they can block the pancreatic duct and cause pancreatitis.
Some pancreas disorders, including diabetes and islet cell tumors, require care from hormone specialists, called endocrinologists. If you need endocrinology care, you can be confident in knowing Duke offers innovative medical and surgical treatments for most pancreatic endocrine problems.
