Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and can occur in two forms — acute, which is sudden and severe, and chronic, which is long-term and progressive. While both forms can cause significant abdominal pain and digestive issues, they may also lead to complications that require further investigation or intervention.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we now offer endoscopic procedures to support the diagnosis and management of pancreatitis in adults, as part of our growing specialist service offering.

---

What Is Pancreatitis?

The pancreas is a gland behind the stomach that produces enzymes to aid digestion and hormones to regulate blood sugar. When the pancreas becomes inflamed:

• In acute pancreatitis, the inflammation develops quickly and may resolve with treatment.
• In chronic pancreatitis, damage occurs over time, often leading to reduced pancreatic function, pain, and malabsorption.

Both types may require imaging and interventional procedures to assess and manage complications.

---

Causes of Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can develop from a range of causes, including:

• Gallstones
• Excessive alcohol use
• Certain medications
• High triglyceride levels
• Autoimmune conditions
• Anatomical issues of the pancreatic or bile ducts

---

When Is Endoscopy Used?

Endoscopy plays an important role in both the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatitis. At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we use endoscopic procedures where appropriate to:

• Investigate causes such as bile duct obstruction or gallstones
• Assess for structural abnormalities or strictures
• Take biopsies when needed
• Support therapeutic interventions (in selected cases)

This may include the use of:

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

A procedure combining endoscopy and imaging to examine the pancreatic and bile ducts. ERCP may be used to:

• Identify the cause of recurrent pancreatitis
• Remove small stones or relieve blockages
• Place stents in narrowed ducts

EUS (Endoscopic Ultrasound)

Used to visualise the pancreas in high detail, EUS may assist in:

• Detecting subtle structural changes
• Guiding biopsies
• Monitoring chronic pancreatitis

Please note: the availability of these procedures may vary. All Endoscopy procedures require a referral from a GP or Consultant.

Learn More About Our Endoscopy Services

---

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

Acute Pancreatitis:

• Sudden, severe upper abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Tenderness on palpation
• Raised pancreatic enzymes (e.g. amylase, lipase)

Chronic Pancreatitis:

• Persistent or recurring abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Greasy or oily stools (steatorrhoea)
• Fatigue
• Diabetes (in advanced cases)

---

Long-Term Effects and Monitoring

Chronic pancreatitis may lead to:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Diabetes mellitus
• Chronic pain
• Increased risk of pancreatic cancer

Endoscopy may assist in the ongoing evaluation of ductal changes or complications, especially when non-invasive imaging is inconclusive.

---

Supporting Adults with Complex Needs

Although pancreatitis is primarily managed through medical and surgical teams, individuals may experience long-term effects that require multidisciplinary support — such as fatigue, digestive issues, or psychological distress.