I have Pancreas Divisum (born with two pancreatic ducts that never fused together). Due to that rare condition it has caused chronic pancreatitis at my young age (38). For the past 12 months I have undergone ERCPs every other month to widen my ducts in an attempt to prevent future attacks. My pancreas specialist advised me the ERCPs aren’t helping the way they should so there’s no reason to subject me to more pain than necessary. He suggested an abdominal nerve block. I also have a rare nerve disease called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. Basically my nerves misfire and contract my muscles. I’ve had nerve blocks before, epidurals and even a spinal cord stimulator surgically implanted and then had to be removed. I was advised this block isn’t implanted in the spine. I’m wondering how effective it is. None of my prior blocks worked but they were all injected into my spine. I’m worried due to my nerve disease this block will be rejected as well. My other concern is my specialist said if the block doesn’t work then the alternative is removing my pancreas. I would be completely dependent on enzymes and insulin. Are there any fellow members who don’t have their pancreas and if so, how do you feel? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you in advance and I hope whom ever responds has a blessed day/evening.
Hi there,
sometimes it is enough to remove the head of the pancreas, the part that is most inflammated. Then you still would have some function left, though you might still need enzymes and insulin.
This webpage has information:
Best wishes!
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Thank you for your response. Unfortunately, in my case, the entire pancreas has to be removed. I have two ducts instead of one which is causing the pancreatitis. It has already caused atrophy to my pancreas (irreversible degeneration). I don’t know anyone who has had their entire pancreas removed. I’m trying to find information and/or people who have experienced it. I also would like to find anyone who has experienced the celiac nerve block for chronic pancreatitis. I’ve read it has a great success rate for pain relief, but I have a nerve disease that doesn’t have a great success rate with nerve blocks. I’m also concerned that it’s really just a mask and not a treatment, in my opinion. I don’t know if it’s going to stop the other symptoms … nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weight loss, hair loss, the list can go on. Pain itself is a symptom, and it lets me know when to rest my pancreas for a couple days. If I don’t have that then what happens? I have so many questions, but no one who has experienced the block. I’m scared of the unknown, but I’m sure everything will work out just fine. I just need to stay positive no matter what. I hope you have a blessed day/evening.