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Pancreatic Cysts

At GastroDoxs in Katy, we provide comprehensive pancreatic cyst evaluation and personalized treatment plans, combining advanced imaging and trusted expert care to accurately diagnose and effectively manage cysts, helping our local community safeguard their digestive health close to home.

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

What is a Pancreatic Cyst?

A pancreatic cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms inside the pancreas. Many are discovered incidentally during CT or MRI scans. While some cysts are harmless and simply monitored over time, others require closer follow-up or treatment. The ICD-10 code for a pancreatic cyst is K86.2.

Common Symptoms

Most pancreatic cysts cause no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, you might notice:

  • Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Feeling full after eating only a small amount
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Back pain (less common)

Causes

Pancreatic cysts can form for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Prior pancreatitis or pancreatic injury
  • Mucinous cystic neoplasms (which may have malignant potential)
  • Serous cystadenomas (typically benign)
  • Obstruction of pancreatic ducts
  • Genetic disorders such as von Hippel-Lindau syndrome
  • Effects of certain cancer treatments
Treatment

Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cysts in Katy

Treatment includes monitoring, diagnostic evaluation, and interventions:

  • Watchful waiting: Low-risk cysts (usually under 3 cm) are followed with periodic CT or MRI scans to track any changes.
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): High-resolution imaging plus fluid sampling helps categorize the cyst and assess malignancy risk.
  • EUS-guided drainage: Minimally invasive drainage of pseudocysts or symptomatic fluid collections to relieve pain and prevent infection.
  • Surgical resection: Removal of large, symptomatic, or potentially precancerous cysts (e.g., mucinous cystic neoplasms) to prevent progression to cancer.
  • Multidisciplinary review: Our team of gastroenterologists, radiologists, and surgeons collaborates on complex cases to tailor the best plan for you.
  • Long-term follow-up: Ongoing imaging and clinical exams ensure any growth or new symptoms are addressed promptly.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs in Katy, we offer advanced imaging and testing tools, personalized care plans, and a team-based review for even the most complex pancreatic cyst cases. Our specialists follow the latest ACG guidelines to determine the safest and most effective management-whether that means close monitoring or timely intervention. We're committed to delivering expert, compassionate care every step of the way. Call us at 832-632-4070 or book your appointment online today for clear answers and peace of mind.

755

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 755 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

Are pancreatic cysts common?

Yes. Studies show up to 20% of adults have pancreatic cysts, most found incidentally on imaging studies like CT or MRI scans.

Can pancreatic cysts go away on their own?

Some pseudocysts that form after pancreatitis may resolve without intervention, but most other cyst types remain stable or grow slowly and require monitoring.

What causes pancreatic cysts?

Cysts can develop after pancreatitis or injury, from mucinous or serous neoplasms, blocked ducts, genetic syndromes (e.g., von Hippel-Lindau), or as a side effect of cancer treatments.

What are the signs of a harmless pancreatic cyst?

Benign cysts often cause no symptoms. When present, they may lead to mild upper abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness after small meals, or occasional bloating.

How are pancreatic cysts diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves abdominal imaging-CT scan or MRI-and may include endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with fluid analysis to assess cyst type and cancer risk.

What is the ICD-10 code for a pancreatic cyst?

The medical billing code for a pancreatic cyst is K86.2.

What do the ACG guidelines recommend for pancreatic cyst management?

The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) guidelines use cyst size, imaging features, and fluid markers to determine when to monitor, sample, or surgically remove a cyst.

Should I see a specialist for a pancreatic cyst?

Yes. A gastroenterologist with expertise in pancreatic disorders can interpret imaging results, recommend appropriate follow-up, and discuss treatment options.

How often should I have follow-up for a pancreatic cyst?

Follow-up frequency depends on cyst type and risk factors. Low-risk cysts are usually monitored annually; higher-risk cysts may need imaging every 3-6 months.

Where can I find a pancreatic cyst specialist near Katy?

GastroDoxs in Katy offers advanced imaging, endoscopic ultrasound, and a multidisciplinary team experienced in pancreatic cyst evaluation and treatment.

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