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Pancreatic Divisum
Pancreatic divisum is a congenital variation in pancreatic ducts that can disrupt enzyme flow and cause abdominal pain or pancreatitis. In Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen offers diagnosis with imaging and treatment plans, including dietary advice, medications, and minimally invasive procedures.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Present at birth - a natural variation in how the pancreatic ducts form
Family history - rare hereditary link in some families
Recurrent pancreatitis - frequent inflammation may uncover the condition
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Upper abdominal pain, often after meals
Nausea or vomiting
Repeat attacks of pancreatitis
Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the mid-belly
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Pancreatic Divisum?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He discusses your epigastric pain, past pancreatitis episodes, family history, and other risk factors.
Physical Examination
He gently palpates your upper abdomen to detect tenderness or signs of inflammation.
Laboratory Tests
Blood work measures pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) and rules out other causes of abdominal pain.
Imaging Studies
MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) to visualize duct anatomy and flow.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for detailed imaging of the pancreatic ducts and surrounding tissue.
ICD-10 Coding
Once confirmed, he assigns the code K86.8 to accurately document the condition.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pancreatic divisum.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips
Eat small, low-fat meals to ease enzyme flow
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Avoid alcohol and tobacco to reduce inflammation
2. Medications
Pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion
Pain relievers for upper abdominal discomfort
Additional medications if you have recurrent pancreatitis
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Endoscopic sphincterotomy to open the minor duct and improve drainage
Stent placement to lower ductal pressure and enhance enzyme flow
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pancreatic divisum?
It's a birth condition where the ducts in your pancreas don't join like they usually do, which can alter enzyme flow to your small intestine.
Can this condition cause cancer?
No strong link has been found between pancreatic divisum and cancer. Most people with the condition do well.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Pain in the upper belly after meals, nausea or vomiting, repeat pancreatitis attacks, and bloating or fullness in the middle of the belly.
How is it diagnosed?
Dr. Nguyen uses a health review, physical exam, and imaging tests like MRCP (MRI of the bile and pancreatic ducts) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment may include small, low-fat meals; pancreatic enzyme supplements; pain management; and, if needed, minimally invasive procedures like endoscopic sphincterotomy or stent placement.
Are these treatments safe?
Yes. Procedures are minimally invasive, done on an outpatient basis at a leading Houston center, and have excellent safety records.
Should I avoid certain foods?
Yes. Eating smaller, low-fat meals and staying hydrated while avoiding alcohol and tobacco can help reduce symptoms and improve digestion.
