Role of total pancreatectomy in the treatment of paraduodenal pancreatitis:A case report

BACKGROUND Paraduodenal pancreatitis(PP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis presenting with symptoms of duodenal obstruction. Conservative treatment is often unsuccessful and pancreaticoduodenectomy is the preferred surgical approach. A mini review of the outcomes of surgical therapy for PP shows that the results of pancreaticoduodenectomy are predominantly favorable.CASE SUMMARY In our case report of PP, we describe an unusual course first presenting with the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis and a pseudocyst of the pancreatic tail. A pseudocystojejunostomy was performed and the late postoperative course was complicated with the symptoms of duodenal obstruction. At laparotomy, PP was found and the patient was treated with a total pancreatectomy. The postoperative course was uneventful and good weight gain with resolution of pain was demonstrated at follow up visits.CONCLUSION Surgery is currently the optimal treatment option for PP. It is also the best diagnostic tool in distinguishing between pancreatitis and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.