Pancreatitis: Causes, Risks, and Treatment

The pancreas plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. When it becomes inflamed — a condition known as pancreatitis — the results can range from severe abdominal pain to life-threatening complications. Pancreatitis may appear suddenly (acute) or develop slowly over time (chronic). Understanding the causes, risks, and treatment options is key to managing this complex condition.

At Dmitri Alden, MD, FACS, we evaluate and treat pancreatitis with an individualized, best-in-class approach. Patients from across the United States and around the world seek Dr. Alden’s expertise, particularly for complex or advanced cases that require specialized care or surgical intervention.

What Is Acute Pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes suddenly inflamed. Symptoms can be severe and come on quickly, often requiring hospitalization. According to the National Institutes of Health, acute pancreatitis accounts for over 275,000 hospital admissions each year in the U.S., making it one of the most common gastrointestinal causes for inpatient care.

Common causes include:

• Gallstones – the most frequent cause; they block the bile duct and trigger sudden inflammation
• Alcohol use – excessive or long-term alcohol intake can irritate the pancreas
• High triglycerides – levels above 1,000 mg/dL significantly increase risk
• Certain medications
• Abdominal trauma
• Infections
• Autoimmune responses

Symptoms may include:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Elevated heart rate
• Pain that radiates to the back

Treatment typically involves hospitalization, bowel rest, IV fluids, pain control, and sometimes procedures to remove gallstones or relieve duct blockages.

What Is Chronic Pancreatitis?

Chronic pancreatitis is long-standing inflammation that leads to permanent damage. The pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce digestive enzymes and regulate blood sugar.

Major causes include:

• Prolonged alcohol use (the leading cause of chronic pancreatitis in adults)
• Genetic factors
• Recurrent acute pancreatitis
• Autoimmune disease
• Obstruction of the pancreatic ducts
• This condition can lead to:
• Weight loss due to malabsorption
• Chronic abdominal pain
• Pancreatic insufficiency
• Diabetes

Studies show that individuals with chronic pancreatitis have a significantly increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer, making expert monitoring essential.

Treatment Options: From Medical Management to Surgery

Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause of the inflammation. Dr. Alden specializes in a comprehensive range of approaches:

1. Medical Management

• Pain control
• Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT)
• Dietary modifications
• Management of diabetes or malabsorption
• Alcohol cessation support if applicable

2. Endoscopic Procedures

These may be used to treat blockages, remove stones, place stents, or drain fluid collections.

3. Minimally Invasive and Complex Pancreatic Surgery

For severe or recurrent pancreatitis, or when structural problems in the pancreas or ducts exist, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Alden is recognized worldwide for his mastery of advanced procedures such as:

• Pancreatic necrosectomy for infected or dead tissue
• Biliary or pancreatic duct reconstruction
• Pancreaticojejunostomy (Puestow procedure)
• Distal pancreatectomy
• Whipple surgery (pancreaticoduodenectomy)
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques for select cases

Surgery is often required when pancreatitis is caused by structural abnormalities, tumors, severe scarring, or complications that do not respond to conservative treatments.

Why Patients Worldwide Choose Dr. Dmitri Alden

Dr. Alden is a renowned NYC liver, pancreas, and bile duct surgeon known for his deeply individualized, patient-first approach. He integrates the latest surgical advancements with comprehensive medical care to ensure the highest standard of treatment.

Patients and medical professionals from the U.S. and around the globe seek Dr. Alden for:

• His subspecialty expertise in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery
• Decades of experience treating highly complex cases
• Advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques
• Exceptional surgical skill in preserving quality of life and long-term function

Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, diagnosis, and goals.

Expert Care for Pancreatitis in NYC

Pancreatitis is a serious condition that requires skilled evaluation and precise management. Whether you are experiencing repeated attacks, ongoing pain, duct obstructions, or complications requiring surgical intervention, you deserve expert care.

Contact the office of Dmitri Alden, MD, FACS today to schedule a consultation and receive the specialized, world-class treatment your condition requires.