Pancreas and bile duct diseases
Pancreatitis and gallstones
Call for an appointmentDuke gastroenterologists and surgeons treat pancreatitis, gallstones and related conditions, including narrowing or leaking in the ducts between the pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts. We use sophisticated technology to pinpoint the cause of your abdominal pain and discomfort, and provide fast, effective treatment to minimize your risk for recurrent problems. Our goal is to return you to optimal health.
Effective, prompt care for pancreatitis and gallstones
Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting may be signs of pancreatitis -- an inflammation that swells the pancreas and prevents it from working properly. Acute pancreatitis needs immediate, effective treatment to prevent serious complications.
Our gastroenterologists specialize in the digestive system, and work closely with interventional radiologists and surgeons to treat pancreas and biliary disorders, including gallstones, which can block the bile duct and lead to pancreatitis, as well as jaundice -- a yellowing of the eyes and skin. Gallstones and other blockages require prompt treatment because they can cause a buildup of bacteria that can lead to serious infections. We also diagnose and manage cysts in the pancreas which may require ongoing monitoring as they can become infected, cause symptoms, or, in some cases, increase your risk for pancreatic cancer.
We use sophisticated technology to evaluate your condition and recommend effective treatment to minimize your risk of more serious complications.
Choose Duke for the treatment of your pancreatitis and bile duct disorders because we offer:
- Diagnostic expertise. Pancreatitis and bile duct diseases can be difficult to treat. Our surgeons and gastrointestinal experts undergo advanced training and have years of experience treating simple and complex diseases of the pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts. We can assess your concerns, identify your condition and deliver the most appropriate treatment quickly and effectively.
- Endoscopic ultrasound experts. As leaders in this sophisticated high-definition imaging technology, we diagnose and treat diseases of the pancreas and bile duct at the earliest possible stage.
- Collaborative care. We work closely with surgeons, cancer specialists and imaging experts to carefully review your tests, and make the most effective recommendations to meet your treatment needs.
- Specialists in abdominal imaging. Our radiologists are experts in using the most advanced diagnostic imaging tools available to pinpoint your condition and determine the best course of treatment.
- PATIENT STORY
Minimally invasive biliary procedure offers relief from past surgeryDr. Jorge Obando's “main concern was to provide me with something different, to do something about the problem, not just talk about it.”
PANCREAS AND BILE DUCT DISEASE
Treatments
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Creates high quality images using a long thin scope with a camera and ultrasound built into it. The scope is inserted through your mouth to reach the GI tract. It allow us to diagnose and treat disorders of the pancreas and bile ducts. Biopsies and drainage of cysts can also be performed through the EUS scope.
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X-ray images and a lighted tube inserted through the mouth to view the pancreas and bile ducts. Your doctor may use ERCP for guidance while removing gallstones and when clearing blockages by inserting balloons or small plastic or metal tubes called stents to widen narrowed bile ducts or pancreatic ducts.
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May be needed to open or bypass clogged ducts. Your surgeon may take a minimally invasive approach that relies on a lighted tube called a laparoscope that is inserted through small incisions. This allows your surgeon to view the pancreas and bile duct and facilitates repairs. Minimally invasive surgery can reduce your pain and shorten your recovery time.
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When fluid build ups and cysts cannot be drained internally, our interventional radiologists may use tubes or small metal or plastic cylinders called stents to clear blockages, open narrowed biliary ducts, and drain fluid build up in the biliary ducts.
PANCREAS AND BILE DUCT DISEASE
Tests
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Evaluates the function of the pancreas, liver and gallbladder by measuring levels of hormones, enzymes and other factors, such as anemia, which may indicate a diagnosis.
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A flexible tube with a camera and ultrasound probe is inserted into the mouth to secure high-quality images of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas and surrounding tissue. Helpful in finding cancers, this test also provides valuable images of the pancreas to diagnose chronic pancreatitis, cysts and other pancreatic disorders.
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X-ray images and a lighted tube inserted through the mouth allow your doctor to view the pancreas and bile ducts. Treatment, such as removal of gallstones that are causing a blockage, often takes place when this test is recommended.
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Our radiologists are specially trained to create the highest quality CT and MRI images of your pancreas and the surrounding area.