1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Pancreatic Divisum Doctor - Dr. Scott Liu
Common types of duct variation that can be symptomatic are pancreatic divisum, which can cause abdominal pain or pancreatitis recurrently. The GastroDoxs based in Houston, Dr. Scott offers quality imaging services, individual theatrical treatment programs and low-invasive procedures to deliver ease and perfect digestive wellness to patients.
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.
What Is Pancreatic Divisum?
Pancreatic divisum is an inborn disorder in which the ducts of the pancreas do not fuse in fetal development. Consequently, the presence of digestive enzymes runs through a smaller duct and that may result in a stagnant cause and inflammation. Although not all experience the symptoms, others can be affected by frequent abdominal ache, or pancreatitis. Running Diagnosis Diagnosis Diagnosis is commonly done by MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) or ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography). Therapy depends on symptoms and therefore it can be treated with endoscopic therapy to enhance drainage or it can involve surgery in severe cases.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Congenital ductal anomaly-failure of the pancreatic ducts to fuse in utero
Presence of two separate pancreatic drainage pathways instead of one
Association with recurrent bouts of acute pancreatitis
No link to diet, lifestyle, or external illness
Signs and Symptoms
Often asymptomatic-many never know they have it
Intermittent upper abdominal pain or discomfort
Pain that may flare after eating, especially fatty meals
Nausea, vomiting, or early satiety
Recurrent pancreatitis-painful inflammation of the pancreas
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Pancreatic Divisum?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He examines your patterns of epigastric pain, previous history of pancreatitis, family history, alcohol, as well as other risk factors.
Blood Tests
Serum amylase and lipase determination are checked to indicate inflammation of pancreas and to exclude other causes of abdominal pain.
Imaging Studies
MRI with MRCP - noninvasive mapping of the pancreatic ducts to spot a divisum.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) - high-resolution images of duct anatomy and surrounding tissue.
ERCP - direct visualization and the option to intervene therapeutically in the same session.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In case of ERCP, Dr. Scott is able to make a small papilla sphincterotomy or insert a temporary stent to establish ductal drainage and to remove obstruction.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pancreatic divisum.
Lifestyle and Dietary changes
Reduce meal portions by eating small and low fat meals to maintain example in the pancreas.
To aid the movement of digestive enzymes, it is essential to keep hydrated.
Minimise alcohol and smoking to minimise the risk of inflammation.
Medications
Symptom-specific pain management.
Additional help with digestion is given in pancreatic enzyme supplements.
Anti-inflammatory medication when necessary to treat pancreatitis.
Minimal Invasive or Advanced Surgery
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) in order to open or dilate ducts that are narrowed.
Stent insertion to enhance draining of the pancreatic fluid.
Infrequently, surgery in case endoscopic therapies have failed.
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
What is pancreatic divisum?
Pancreatic divisum is an inborn disorder when the pancreas empties into a duct rather than a single duct.
Does it cause cancer because of this condition?
Pancreatic divisum in itself does not necessarily lead to cancer but recurrent inflammation (pancreatitis) can occasionally lead to the escalation of risks in the long term.
Are the symptoms serious?
Many people have no symptoms. A small number are mildly upper-abdominal pained or full after eating and some develop severe pancreatitis.
ICD-10 code of pancreatic divisum?
Pancreatic divisum is medical code number, Q45.8.
Is surgery required?
Surgery is not required in the majority of patients. Diet and lifestyle changes, medications, or endoscopic procedures (ERP with stent placement) are the relief of many.
Does pancreatic divisum prevail in Houston?
The condition cuts across the globe. It happens in patients who experience unexplainable pancreatic pain or frequent pancreatitis in Houston, GastroDoxs, with Dr. Scott.
Where can I learn more?
Additional resources and support Visit the National Pancreas Foundation web site at www.pancreasfoundation.org.
