Pancreatic Divisum is an inborn disorder whereby the two principal ducts of the pancreas never meet during the fetal development resulting in separate channels of drainage. The ducts empty into the small intestine before they pass through the duct in most individuals, whereas in Pancreatic Divisum they are independent of one another. This anatomical anomaly is both normally benign and is most commonly found incidentally during imaging examination, e.g. MRCP or CT scanning, but can be associated with occasionally obstructed pancreatic drainage and pancreatitis.
The majority of Pancreatic Divisum do not show any symptoms. Among the possible problems that arise, there may be:
Pancreatic Divisum is inborn and is caused by an anomaly that the pancreas undergoes during formative stages. Key factors include:
When you have pancreatic divisum that is making you uncomfortable or having frequent pancreatitis, you should not wait, our board-certified GastroDoxs specialists will be there to assist. Our services provide illegal MRCP/ERCP imaging, customized endoscopic treatment, customized nutrition advice, and careful care to ensure that you are back to our side feeling your best.
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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.
Pancreatic Divisum is seen in approximately 5-10 percent of the population, hence it is one of the most common natural occurrence of pancreatic duct anatomy variants.
No. The majority of the people do not have any symptoms and do not need treatment. The only case when treatment is advised is when the patient is experiencing pain or develops recurrent pancreatitis.
Diagnosis is done with the imaging tests like MRCP ( Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography ), CT scan, or ERP which produce clear images that can be used to diagnose the ductal separation.
The anatomy is ductal, although, in adults, one can be more likely of developing such symptoms as pancreatitis or chronic abdominal pain over time than in children.
The duct configuration cannot be changed such that some cure can be provided. Nevertheless, endoscopic therapy, medications, dietary alteration, and some rare instances of surgery can manage the symptoms.
Yes. ERCP is associated with risk factors like post procedure pancreatitis, infection, bleeding and perforation. Whenever carried out by trained experts, these risks are reduced to very minimal values.
Small and frequent meals, sufficient hydration and (when medical professionals prescribe it) pancreatic enzyme supplements may assist in a low-fat diet and alleviate symptoms and digestion issues.
Yes. Pancreatic Divisum does not occur frequently but may occur in patients having an annular pancreas, which may result in aggravated ductal obstruction and risk of pancreatitis.
Contact a gastroenterologist in case you have recurring upper abdominal pains, intermittent cases of pancreatitis in the absence of an identifiable cause or persistent digestive disorders even after conventional treatment.
To be referred to board-certified pancreatic specialists, you can contact GastroDoxs, or ask your primary care physician to offer his or her suggestions in your locality.
