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Annular Pancreas
Annular pancreas is a rare congenital anomaly where pancreatic tissue encircles the duodenum, potentially causing obstruction. In Houston, Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs specializes in precise diagnosis, personalized noninvasive management and surgical options to restore digestive health and quality of life.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Developmental anomaly during early pregnancy leading pancreatic tissue to encircle the duodenum
Family history of congenital digestive or pancreatic disorders
Association with other birth defects, such as Down syndrome
Polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) detected before birth
Unknown genetic or environmental factors affecting pancreatic development
Signs and Symptoms
Newborn feeding difficulties and bilious (green/yellow) vomiting
Poor weight gain and abdominal bloating in infants
Recurrent upper abdominal pain in older children and adults
Nausea, early satiety, bloating, or reflux symptoms
Intermittent diarrhea or malabsorption in some cases
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Annular Pancreas?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews birth and feeding history, notes any epigastric pain patterns, vomiting episodes, growth delays, and family risk factors.
Physical Examination
He palpates the abdomen for tenderness or distension and assesses nutritional status.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal Ultrasound to visualize a pancreatic ring around the duodenum.
CT Scan or MRI for detailed anatomy, to confirm the annular ring and exclude other causes.
Contrast X-Ray (Upper GI Series)
A liquid contrast study outlines the duodenum and demonstrates any obstruction from the pancreatic ring.
Blood Tests
Laboratory work-up includes pancreatic enzymes (amylase/lipase), liver function tests, and nutritional markers to rule out pancreatitis or malabsorption.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for annular pancreas.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eating smaller, more frequent meals to ease symptoms
Choosing low-fat, high-fiber foods to support digestion
Staying well-hydrated to aid intestinal function
Keeping a food diary to identify and avoid triggers
2. Medications
Pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid nutrient absorption
Acid-reducing medications to manage reflux and heartburn
Pain management under close clinical supervision
3. Minimally Invasive and Surgical Interventions
Endoscopic stent placement to bypass the obstruction in select cases
Surgical bypass procedures to create an alternative pathway for food
Traditional surgery to remove or adjust the annular pancreatic tissue
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How rare is this condition?
Annular pancreas affects about one in every 12,000 to 15,000 newborns.
Can symptoms appear in adulthood?
Yes. Some people do not experience symptoms until their twenties or thirties.
Is surgery always required?
No. Mild cases may improve with diet changes and medication. Surgery is recommended if the intestine is significantly blocked.
What is recovery like after surgery?
Most patients recover within a few days. Minimally invasive approaches often mean a hospital stay of just a few days.
Can annular pancreas lead to diabetes?
It is rare. Dr. Scott will monitor your blood sugar if needed to rule out diabetes.
Are there support groups in Houston?
Yes. Dr. Scott can connect you with local support groups for people with pancreatic conditions.
What follow-up care will I need?
Regular visits with Dr. Scott and imaging tests may be scheduled to monitor your healing and digestive function over time.
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