Treatment Results of Endoscopic Pancreatic Duct Drainage for Chronic Pancreatitis in Our Institute

This study investigated the usefulness and complications of endoscopic pancreatic duct drainage(EPD) for benign pancreatic duct strictures in our institute. METHODS: (1) Endoscopic pancreatic stenting (EPS): In our institute, a pancreatic duct stricture with subjective symptoms is an indication for EPS. Sixty-seven consecutive patients were included. Tube stents (7 or 8.5Fr) were used and exchanged every 90 days. Since our retrospective study results showed intraductal ultrasonography findings and lifestyle changes were significant factors in preventing stent reinsertion, stents were removed based on these two factors. (2) Endoscopic nasal pancreatic duct drainage(ENPD): There were seven cases with retrograde pancreatic cyst infection, an indication for ENPD. ENPD was discontinued when the pancreatic cysts were improved. RESULTS: (1) Complications during EPS were found in 17 cases. Stent reinser-tion was required in 15 cases. Forty―two (62.7％) cases progressed well while stents were inserted or after the stents were removed. (2) The cysts were improved in all cases by ENPD, and no cases required additional treatment. CONCLUSION: Though there were problems of complications and stent reinser-tion cases, EPD was effective more than 60％ of cases, so it can be the first choice treatment for benign pancreatic duct strictures.