The surgical managements for chronic pancreatitis and the evaluation of the procedures

Chronic pancreatitis is usually characterised by a persistent inflammtory process, recurrent painful attacks and progressive loss of pancreatic endocrine and exocrine function. Its pathological change encludes fibrosis of the parenchyma, anatomic stricture and dilatation of the pancreatic duct, with or without calcification or stone. It is most commonly caused by the abuse of alcohol. The evaluation criterion for a successful treatment is the degree of symptomatic relief. The surgical management aimed at the pancrease includes simple drainage procedures(Peustow procedure, Partington and Rochelle procedure, et al), resections of different extents or a combination of both(Beger procedure, Frey procedure, et al). For the complexity of the symptomatology, pathology and radiology, the managements would be diversified. Whether surgery, endotherapy or other modalities are applied, individualization according to the surgical indications should be kept in mind.