Surgical Management of Chronic Pancreatitis

The purpose of this exhibit is to present the practical aspects of the etiologic mechanisms and the surgical management of this disease. Pancreatitis is a disease of multiple causes. Repeated episodes of pancreatitis, edema, and necrosis lead to chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic ductal obstruction exists in most instances. The majority of cases are associated with biliary tract disease and/or alcoholism. In some patients no causative factor can be found. Alcohol The incidence of alcoholism in patients with pancreatitis is high. Alcohol stimulates pancreatic flow and at the same time causes pancreatic ductal obstruction. Other Causes Other causes of pancreatitis are as follows: Trauma Metabolic disturbances Heredity Toxic conditions Vascular Infection Surgical Management Selection of Patients Indications Demonstrable biliary tract disease Intractable pain Duodenal loop changes with or without obstruction Questionable carcinoma Progressive pancreatic insufficiency Pancreatic calcinosis Contraindications Continuing alcoholism Continuing drug addiction Surgical procedures must be altered to meet the varied