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Pancreatic Pseudocyst

At GastroDoxs in Cypress, our specialized team provides expert diagnosis, minimally invasive drainage, and personalized follow-up care for pancreatic pseudocyst patients, ensuring fast relief, clear guidance, and compassionate support tailored to our Bay Area community's unique needs and recovery goals.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Is a Pancreatic Pseudocyst?

A pancreatic pseudocyst is a pocket of fluid that forms near or inside your pancreas, usually after inflammation or injury. Unlike a true cyst, it isn't lined by cells but by scar tissue.

Common Symptoms

You may not notice a pseudocyst at first. When symptoms appear, they can include:

  • Pain or pressure in the upper abdomen
  • Feeling full quickly or bloated
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fever or chills if infection occurs
  • Difficulty eating large meals

Causes

Pancreatic pseudocysts often develop after damage to the pancreas. Common causes include:

  • Acute pancreatitis (from gallstones or alcohol)
  • Chronic pancreatitis with ongoing fluid buildup
  • Injury or surgery near the pancreas
  • Blocked pancreatic duct
Treatment

Treatment Options for Pancreatic Pseudocyst in Cypress

Treatment depends on cyst size, symptoms, and infection risk:

  • Watchful waiting: Small pseudocysts (under 6 cm) often resolve on their own. Regular imaging and symptom checks ensure it's shrinking.
  • Endoscopic drainage: A minimally invasive procedure where an endoscope places a stent to drain the cyst into the stomach or small intestine.
  • Percutaneous drainage: Image-guided needle drainage removes fluid externally-ideal for infected or symptomatic cysts that require quick relief.
  • Surgical intervention: Reserved for large, complicated, or recurrent pseudocysts. Procedures include cystogastrostomy or cystojejunostomy to create a permanent drain.
  • Follow-up imaging: Periodic CT or MRI scans monitor cyst resolution and detect any new fluid collections early.
  • Blood tests: Regular amylase and lipase measurements track pancreatic inflammation and help guide ongoing care.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

With a focus on comprehensive pancreatic care, GastroDoxs in Cypress offers expert evaluation, minimally invasive drainage options, and personalized follow-up to ensure you recover safely and comfortably. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step-from diagnosis to healing. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward relief from your pancreatic pseudocyst.

1.5K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a pancreatic pseudocyst diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound, along with blood tests measuring pancreatic enzymes like amylase and lipase.

Can a small pancreatic pseudocyst go away on its own?

Yes. Small pseudocysts often shrink and resolve within 4 to 6 weeks with rest and regular monitoring, provided they're not causing symptoms or complications.

When do I need pseudocyst drainage?

Drainage is recommended if the cyst is larger than 6 cm, causes significant pain or pressure, shows signs of infection, or poses a risk of rupture.

What is cyst drainage to the stomach?

This is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that creates a channel between the cyst and the stomach, allowing the fluid to drain safely into the gastrointestinal tract.

Is pseudocyst drainage safe?

Yes. When performed by an experienced gastroenterologist using advanced imaging and endoscopic tools, the procedure carries low risk and high success rates.

When do pancreatic pseudocysts form after pancreatitis?

Pseudocysts typically develop 4 to 6 weeks after an acute bout of pancreatitis, as the body walls off leaked pancreatic fluid.

Can I avoid surgery for a pancreatic pseudocyst?

Most pseudocysts can be managed with endoscopic or percutaneous drainage. Surgery is reserved for large, infected, or complicated cysts that don't respond to less invasive methods.

How can I prevent a pancreatic pseudocyst from coming back?

To reduce recurrence, avoid alcohol, follow a low-fat diet, stay well-hydrated, and address underlying issues such as gallstones or chronic pancreatitis.

Who treats pancreatic pseudocysts?

A gastroenterologist with specialized training in pancreatic disorders-like the team at GastroDoxs-is best equipped to diagnose and manage pseudocysts.

How can I find a specialist in Cypress?

Search online for "gastroenterologist in Cypress," ask for referrals, or contact GastroDoxs directly to schedule a consultation with our pancreatic care experts.

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