Successful treatment for groove pancreatitis by endoscopic drainage via the minor papilla

Chronic pancreatitis for the clinician: complications and special forms of the disease. Interdisciplinary position paper of the Catalan Society of Digestology (SCD) and the Catalan Pancreatic Society (SCPanc)

Chronic pancreatitis tends to develop a number of complications that may constitute the form of presentation of the disease. Some societies have issued guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of chronic pancreatitis complications, but the level of evidence for any topic is usually low and recommendations tend to be weak. We aimed to provide defined position statements for the clinician based on updated review of published literature and on multidisciplinary expert agreement. The goal was to propose defined terminology and rational diagnostic/therapeutic circuits based on current knowledge. To this end 14 sections related to complications and special forms of chronic pancreatitis (early chronic, groove and autoimmune pancreatitis) were reviewed by 21 specialists from 6 different fields to generate 32 statements. Featured statements assert common bile duct stenosis does not require invasive treatment (endoscopic or surgical) unless cholestasis, cholangitis, lithiasis or other symptoms develop. Pancreatic duct strictures and calculi should be approached (after ruling out malignancy) if causing pain, pancreatitis, pseudocysts or other complications. Treatment of symptomatic pseudocysts must be individualized, considering associated main duct stenosis, vascular and pericystic complications. Higher risk conditions for pancreatic cancer are advance age, smoking, genetic background, recent diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis or diabetes, and appearance of new symptoms. Groove pancreatitis can initially be treated with conservative measures. Both prednisolone or rituximab can induce remission and maintenance of autoimmune pancreatitis. Internal fistula, vascular complications, bacterial overgrowth, osteoporosis and renal lithiasis require specific therapeutic approaches.

"Hitch-and-ride" for the major to minor rendezvous in a patient with groove pancreatitis

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Diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasound in groove pancreatitis

Aim: Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare type of chronic pancreatitis characterized by varying degrees of thickening and scarring of the duodenal wall, duodenal lumen stenosis, mucosal hypertrophy with plicae and cyst formation. GP is primarily observed in middle-aged male patients with a history of alcohol consumption. Clinical symptoms are usually non-specific, and there is currently no unified diagnostic standard. However, imaging methods, particularly endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), are useful for diagnosis. EUS-guided biopsy can provide a strong basis for the final diagnosis. This review summarizes the value of EUS and its derivative technologies in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment of GP.Methods: After searching in PubMed and Web of Science databases using 'groove pancreatitis (GP)' and 'endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)' as keywords, studies related were compiled and examined.Results: EUS and its derivative technologies are of great significance in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of GP, but there are still limitations that need to be comprehensively applied with other diagnostic methods to obtain the most accurate results.Conclusion: EUS has unique value in both the diagnosis and treatment of GP. Clinicians need to be well-versed in the advantages and limitations of EUS for GP diagnosis to select the most suitable imaging diagnostic method for different cases and to reduce the unnecessary waste of medical resources.

Surgical Management of Groove Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a chronic type of pancreatitis involving the groove area between the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, and the common bile duct. Alcohol abuse is one of the main pathogenetic factors, although its etiology is not clearly defined. Differential diagnosis of pancreatic disorders remains difficult. The lack of diagnostic management and the restrictive number of patients are the main barriers. This article presents a case of a 37-year-old male diagnosed with GP after several episodes of epigastric pain and vomiting, with a history of chronic alcohol consumption. The patient's radiological and laboratory results excluded the possibility of malignancy and suggested the diagnosis of groove pancreatitis with duodenal stenosis. After initial conservative treatment failed, surgical management was decided. A gastroenteroanastomosis was made in order to bypass the duodenum aiming for a total resolution of the symptoms and an uneventful recovery of the patient. Although most studies suggest pancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple's procedure) as the treatment of choice, a less major procedure can be performed in evidence of malignancy absence.

Cystic dystrophy in heterotopic pancreas

Cystic dystrophy in heterotopic pancreas, or paraduodenal pancreatitis, is a rare and complicated presentation involving heterotopic pancreatic tissue in the duodenal wall. This condition is present in 5% of the general population but disease mainly affects middle-aged alcoholic-smoking men with chronic pancreatitis (CP). It may be purely duodenal or segmental (pancreatico-duodenopathy). Its pathophysiology arises from alcohol toxicity with obstruction of small ducts of heterotopic pancreatic tissue present in the duodenal wall and the pancreatic-duodenal sulcus, leading to repeated episodes of pancreatitis. The symptomatology includes episodes of acute pancreatitis, weight loss, and vomiting due to duodenal obstruction. Imaging shows thickening of the wall of the second portion of the duodenum with multiple small cysts. A stepwise therapeutic approach is preferred. Conservative medical treatment is favored in first intention (analgesics, continuous enteral feeding, somatostatin analogues), which allows complete symptomatic regression in 57% of cases associated with a 5% rate of complications (arterial thrombosis and diabetes). Endoscopic treatment may also be associated with conservative measures. Surgery achieves a complete regression of symptoms in 79% of cases but with a 20% rate of complications. Surgery is indicated in case of therapeutic failure or in case of doubt about a malignant tumor. Pancreaticoduodenectomy and duodenal resection with pancreatic preservation (PPDR) seem to be the most effective treatments. PPDR has also been proposed as a first-line treatment for purely duodenal location of paraduodenal pancreatitis, thereby preventing progression to an extended segmental form.

A case of groove pancreatitis with duodenal stenosis successfully treated by endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided pancreaticogastrostomy

One of the reasons for groove pancreatitis is caused by the leakage of pancreatic juice into the space between the pancreatic head, descending duodenum, and common bile duct. Endoscopic drainage of Santorini's duct (SD) via the minor papilla is reportedly efficacious but can be difficult due to duodenal stenosis. We report Santorini's duct drainage using endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided pancreaticogastrostomy (EUS‐PGS) for a case of groove pancreatitis with gastric outlet obstruction. Gastric outlet obstruction was improved after 7 months of EUS‐PGS with internal drainage through the Santorini's duct/minor papilla. EUS‐PGS may be effective for treating groove pancreatitis with duodenal stenosis. This is the first report of groove pancreatitis with duodenal stenosis, the symptoms of which were improved by EUS‐PGS.

Groove Pancreatitis: A Case Report and Review of a Hidden Type of Chronic Pancreatitis

Groove pancreatitis is a chronic type of segmental or focal pancreatitis seen to affect the groove, which is the region between the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, and the common bile duct. Despite its incidence remaining unknown, it accounts for 2.7% to 24.5% of pancreaticoduodenectomies performed for chronic pancreatitis. A diverse etiology has been implicated but the exact cause is yet to be identified. As it closely mimics pancreatic malignancy and remains mostly undiagnosed preoperatively, many patients often end up undergoing a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Awareness of this entity and early diagnosis will help us address this issue with more conservative measures than by resorting to a morbid procedure such as a pancreaticoduodenectomy.

We report a case of a 50-year-old male, a chronic alcoholic, with a two-year history of upper abdominal pain, postprandial vomiting, and weight loss. An abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scan was suggestive of either a pancreatic malignancy or a possibility of groove pancreatitis. However, postoperative histopathological examination confirmed the lesser known groove pancreatitis. Here, we review the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics of groove pancreatitis, as its diagnosis and management still pose a challenge.

Outcome of Whipple's procedure for Groove pancreatitis: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Background

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis primarily affecting the pancreatoduodenal groove. Very few studies have been published from India. The aim of the present study is to report our experience with Whipple's procedure for GP.

Methodology

In this cross-sectional study, data of all patients who underwent Whipple's procedure for GP between August 2007 and July 2021 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Of the total 504 Whipple's procedures, histopathologically proven GP was identified in 9 patients. All of them were male. Mean age at presentation was 42.66 ± 4.35 years. All of them had history of alcohol abuse. Eight (88.8%) of them had history of smoking. Postprandial abdominal discomfort and pain (n = 9, 100%) was the most common presenting symptom. Three (33.3%) patients had solid variety and six (66.6%) patients had cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall. Two (22.2%) patients had mass in the head of the pancreas which was thought to be malignant. None of the patients underwent prior endoscopic management (stenting). Duration of surgery and blood loss was 330 (range, 300–379) minutes, and 250 (range, 200–750) ml respectively. There was no postoperative mortality. Postoperative complications developed in 5 (55.5%) patients. All the complications were managed conservatively. Median postoperative hospital stay was 10 (range, 9–16) days. Over a median follow-up of 41 (range, 12–120) months, complete remission of symptoms was achieved in 7 (78%) patients.

Conclusion

Whipple's procedure is safe with acceptable perioperative outcomes and good long-term symptom control.

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Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis which involves the pancreatoduodenal groove.

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It is difficult to differentiate GP from pancreatic head malignancy preoperatively

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Whipple's procedure in GP has acceptable perioperative morbidity and mortality and long-term good results.

CT imaging patterns of paraduodenal pancreatitis: a unique clinicoradiological entity

AIM

To analyse the computed tomography (CT) findings of paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) in patients treated at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinical, laboratory, and CT findings of 30 patients with PP treated from July 2007 to December 2020 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 45.9 years (19-60 years), which included 29 (96.7%) men, and 90% had a history of alcohol abuse. The majority [22 (73.3%)] presented with recurrent abdominal pain. Serum amylase was elevated in 21 (70%) patients and serum lipase was elevated in 25 (83.3%) patients. Carbohydrate antigen (CA 19-9) was elevated in three (10%) patients. The cystic pattern was seen in three (10%), solid pattern in 13 (43.3%), and solid-cystic pattern in 14 (46.7%) patients. The pure form of the disease was seen in seven (23.3%) patients, whereas the segmental form was seen in 23 (76.7%) patients. Descending duodenal wall thickening and enhancement was seen in 25 (83.3%) and 18 (60%) patients, respectively. The gastroduodenal artery was displaced medially in 12 (40%) patients and encased in five (16.7%) patients; however, it was not occluded in any of the patients. Calcifications were seen in the groove lesion in nine (30%) patients. The pancreas showed atrophic changes in 14 (46.6%) patients and calcifications in 12 (40%) patients. Distal common bile duct strictures were seen in three (10%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of sheet-like soft-tissue thickening in the groove with diffuse duodenal thickening and intramural/paraduodenal cysts are highly suggestive of PP. Identifying characteristic imaging findings of PP may help in prospective diagnosis and lead to conservative management of most of these patients avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures.

Duodenal stenosis associated with an ectopic opening of the common bile duct into the duodenal bulb: a case report

Background

Ectopic opening of the common bile duct is a rare congenital biliary anomaly. Herein, we present a case of duodenal stenosis with ectopic opening of the common bile duct into the duodenal bulb.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old man was referred with fever, nausea, and vomiting. He had experienced epigastric pain several times over the past 30 years. Endoscopy showed a post-bulbar ulcer, a submucosal tumor of the duodenum, and a small opening with bile secretion. Contrast duodenography revealed duodenal stenosis and bile reflux with a common bile duct deformity. Pancreatoduodenectomy was performed because of the clinical suspicion of a biliary neoplasm or groove pancreatitis. The resected specimen showed an ectopic opening of the common bile duct into the duodenal bulb and no tumor.

Conclusions

Ectopic opening of the common bile duct into the duodenal bulb is complicated by a duodenal ulcer, deformity, and stenosis mimicking groove pancreatitis or pancreatic tumors. Although rare, we should be aware of this anomaly for an accurate diagnosis.

Groove pancreatitis has a spectrum of severity and can be managed conservatively

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The natural history of groove pancreatitis is incompletely characterized. Published literature suggests a high rate of surgery. We describe the short- and long-term outcomes in a cohort of patients with groove pancreatitis treated at our institution.

METHODS

Medical records of patients hospitalized in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center system from 2000 to 2014 and diagnosed with groove pancreatitis based on imaging were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical presentation and outcomes during index admission and follow-up were recorded.

RESULTS

Forty-eight patients with groove pancreatitis were identified (mean age 53.2 years, 79% male). Seventy-one percent were alcohol abusers and an equal number were cigarette smokers. Prior histories of acute and chronic pancreatitis were noted in 30 (62.5%) and 21 (43.8%), respectively. Forty-four (91.7%) met criteria for acute pancreatitis during their index admission. Alcohol was the most common etiology (68.8%). No patient experienced organ failure. The most frequent imaging findings were fat stranding in the groove (83.3%), duodenal wall thickening (52.1%), and soft tissue mass/thickening in the groove (50%). Over a mean follow-up of 5.0 years, seven (14.6%) required a pancreas-related surgery. Patients had a high burden of pancreatitis-related readmissions (68.8%, 69.4/100 patient-years). Incident diabetes and chronic pancreatitis were diagnosed in 5 (13.9% of patients at risk) and 8 (29.6% of patients at risk) respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Groove pancreatitis has a wide spectrum of severity; most patients have mild disease. These patients have a high burden of readmissions and progression to chronic pancreatitis. A small minority requires surgical intervention.

Groove pancreatitis: a challenging imaging diagnosis

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is an uncommon form of chronic pancreatitis (CP) involving the space between duodenum, pancreatic head and common bile duct (CBD) known as pancreatic-duodenal groove. Although an association with long-standing ethanol assumption is reported a definite etiology of GP is unknown. Since thickening of the duodenal wall, pancreatic head enlargement, CBD stricture and dilatation of pancreatic duct system are common findings the differential diagnosis with pancreatic head neoplasm by means of imaging can be challenging. However, some imaging findings such as fibrotic changes of the pancreatic groove and presence of duodenal wall cysts may suggest the correct diagnosis. In this paper we review clinical and imaging features of GP with emphasis on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.

Comparison between groove carcinoma and groove pancreatitis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The pancreatoduodenal groove (anatomical groove) is a potential space bordered by the head of the pancreas, duodenum, and common bile duct. Discerning between groove carcinoma (GC) and groove pancreatitis (GP) is often difficult, but clinically important. We retrospectively analyzed and compared the findings of computed tomography (CT), laboratory tests, and endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) for GC and GP.

METHODS

GC (n = 36) and GP (n = 44) patients at Asan Medical Center from January 1, 2000, to May 31, 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. MDCT findings, baseline characteristics, laboratory test results, and EUS and EUS-FNA findings of GC and GP patients were compared.

RESULTS

CT showed no significant difference in groove enhancement between the groups. Mass-like lesions, cystic groove lesions, and calcification were observed in 86.1% and 15.9%, 38.9% and 75%, and 2.8% and 29.5% of GC and GP patients, respectively. Patients were tested for total bilirubin (GC: 2.0 vs. GP: 0.6 mg/dL), cancer antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) (GC: 76 vs. GP: 12.5 U/mL), and carcinoembryonic antigen (GC: 2.4 vs. GP: 2 ng/mL). Three GP patients died, and one GP patient was diagnosed with GC. However, among 30 GC patients with at least 1-year follow-up, 20 died. In multivariate logistic regression, CA19-9, and mass-like lesion on multidetector CT (MDCT) were discriminating factors between GC and GP. Among 23 (10 GC, 13 GP) patients who underwent EUS-FNA, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, accuracy of EUS-FNA were 90%, 100%, 100%, 92.86%, and 95.65%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Several MDCT and laboratory findings favor GC over GP. EUS-FNA should be considered in patients with elevated CA19-9 levels and mass-like lesions on MDCT.

Groove Pancreatitis: Endoscopic Treatment via the Minor Papilla and Duct of Santorini Morphology

Background/Aims

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is an uncommon disease involving the pancreaticoduodenal area. Possible pathogenesis includes obstructive pancreatitis in the duct of Santorini and impaired communication with the duct of Wirsung, minor papilla stenosis, and leakage causing inflammation. Limited data regarding endoscopic treatment have been published.

Methods

Seven patients with GP receiving endoscopic treatment were reviewed. The morphology of the pancreatic duct was evaluated by a pancreatogram. Endoscopic dilation of the minor papilla and drainage of the duct of Santorini were performed.

Results

There were two pancreatic divisum cases, one ansa pancreatica case and four impaired connections between the duct of Santorini and the main pancreatic duct. Three to 31 sessions of endoscopy, with 2 to 24 sessions of transpapillary stenting and dilation, were performed. Interventions through the minor papilla were successfully performed in six of seven cases. The pancreatic stenting duration ranged from 2 to 87 months. Five patients with evidence of chronic pancreatitis (CP) tended to receive more endoscopic interventions than did the two patients without CP (2–24 vs 2, respectively) for GP and other complications associated with CP.

Conclusions

Disconnection or impairment of communication between the ducts of Santorini and Wirsung was observed in all cases of GP. No surgery was required, and endoscopic minor papilla dilation and drainage of the duct of Santorini were feasible for the treatment of GP.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and Outcomes for Groove Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The operative management of groove pancreatitis (GP) is still a matter of controversy and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) can be a high-risk procedure for patients. The aim of this study was to report our 9-year experience of surgical resection for GP and to review relevant literature.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing pancreatectomy for GP from August 1, 2008, through May 31, 2017 was performed. Patients with clinical, radiologic, and final pathologic confirmation of GP were included. Literature on the current understanding of GP was reviewed.

RESULTS

Eight patients from total 449 pancreatectomies met inclusion criteria. Four male and 4 female patients (mean age, 51.9 years; mean body mass index, 25.3) underwent pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (3 by laparoscopy and 5 by open approach). Mean (range) operative time and blood loss was 343 (167-525) min and 218 (40-500) mL respectively. Pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying were noted in one patient each. No major complications occurred, but minor complications occurred in 5 (62%) patients. Mean hospital stay was 6.1 (range 3-14) days. At median follow-up of 18.15 (interquartile range 7.25-33.8) months, all patients experienced a resolution of pancreatitis and improvement in symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

PD is a safe procedure for GP. Short-term surgical outcomes are acceptable and long-term outcomes are associated with improved symptom control.

Outcomes After Conservative, Endoscopic, and Surgical Treatment of Groove Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a focal form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the paraduodenal groove area, for which consensus on diagnosis and management is lacking.

GOALS

We performed a systematic review of the literature to determine patient characteristics and imaging features of GP and to evaluate clinical outcomes after treatment.

RESULTS

Eight studies were included reporting on 335 GP patients with a median age of 47 years (range, 34 to 64 y), with 90% male, 87% smokers, and 87% alcohol consumption, and 47 months (range, 15 to 122 mo) of follow-up. Most patients presented with abdominal pain (91%) and/or weight loss (78%). Imaging frequently showed cystic lesions (91%) and duodenal stenosis (60%).Final treatment was conservative (eg, pain medication) in 29% of patients. Endoscopic treatment (eg, pseudocyst drainage) was applied in 19% of patients-34% of these patients were subsequently referred for surgery. Overall, 59% of patients were treated surgically (eg, pancreatoduodenectomy). Complete symptom relief was observed in 50% of patients who were treated conservatively, 57% who underwent endoscopic treatment, and 79% who underwent surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

GP is associated with male gender, smoking, and alcohol consumption. The vast majority of patients presents with abdominal pain and with cystic lesions on imaging. Although surgical treatment seems to be the most effective, both conservative and endoscopic treatment are successful in about half of patients. A stepwise treatment algorithm starting with the least invasive treatment options seems advisable.

Groove Pancreatitis: Report of Three Cases with Brief Review of Literature

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare type of segmental pancreatitis, and it remains largely an unfamiliar entity to most physicians. It is often misdiagnosed as pancreatic cancer and autoimmune pancreatitis. With better understanding of radiological findings, preoperative differentiation is often possible. If there is preoperative diagnosis of GP, one can employ non-surgical treatment. But most of the patients ultimately require surgery. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is the surgical treatment of choice. We report three cases of GP that were treated by Whipple's operation at our unit. All the three patients had a history of long-standing alcohol intake. In the first and third patients, we had a preoperative diagnosis of GP. But, in the second patient, our pre-operative and intra-operative diagnosis was a pancreatic head malignancy. Diagnosis of GP was made only after histopathological examination. All the three patients had uneventful postoperative recovery and were well at 55-, 45- and 24-month follow-up respectively. In addition to detail descriptions of our three cases, a detailed review of the current literature surrounding this clinical entity is also provided in this article.

Groove pancreatitis vs. pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A review of 8 cases

INTRODUCTION

Groove pancreatitis (PS) is an uncommon clinical situation and radiologically it can mimic carcinoma of the periampullary area. The aim of this paper is to study a series of 8 patients who underwent surgery with preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic head mass and subsequent pathological diagnosis of PS.

METHODS

In our series, 6 were men and 2 women, with an average age of 51,9 years. Before surgery, all patients had epigastric abdominal pain requiring analgesia at high doses. The preoperative analytical CEA and Ca 19.9 were normal in all patients. Imaging studies showed intrapancreatic solid lesions in 6 of the 8 patients, and in the remaining 2 one papillary mass of 5 and 6cm, respectively, that caused stenosis in the duodenal luz. EUS neoplastic cells were negative in all patients.

RESULTS

The immediate postoperative evolution was satisfactory, there are no complications. In our series, no patients have died. The long-term follow-up, in 7 of the 8 patients, has been excellent with disappearance of abdominal pain and improvement of nutritional status. The remaining patient had frequent recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis, and at 60 months, presented a pseudocyst that has required a Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

PS must be included in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic lesions, which may include carcinoma of the periampullary area and other causes of chronic pancreatitis.

Clinicoradiological appraisal of 'paraduodenal pancreatitis': Pancreatitis outside the pancreas!

Purpose:

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) is a unique form of focal chronic pancreatitis that selectively involves the duodenum and aberrant pancreatic tissue located near the minor papilla (beyond the pancreas proper). The pseudotumoral nature of the disease often generates considerable clinical quandary and patient apprehension, and therefore merits a better understanding. The present study appraises the clinicoradiological manifestations of PP in 33 patients.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical, laboratory, and radiological manifestations of 33 patients of PP treated in gastroenterology/hepatology and hepato-pancreatico-biliary surgery units during June 2010-August 2014 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results:

All patients were young to middle-aged men (100%) with history of alcohol abuse (93.9%) and/or smoking (42.4%), who presented either with acute or gradually worsening abdominal pain (90.9%). Pancreatic enzymes and serum tumor markers remained normal or were mildly/transiently elevated. Cystic variant was detected in 57.6% (solid in 42.4%); the disease remained confined to the groove/duodenum (pure form) in 45.4%. Medial duodenal wall thickening with increased enhancement was seen in 87.87 and 81.81%, respectively, and duodenal/paraduodenal cysts were seen in 78.78%. Pancreatic calcifications and biliary stricture were seen 27.3% patients. Peripancreatic arteries were neither infiltrated nor encased.

Conclusion:

PP has a discrete predilection for middle-aged men with history of longstanding alcohol abuse and/or smoking. Distinguishing imaging findings include thickening of the pancreatic side of duodenum exhibiting increased enhancement with intramural/paraduodenal cysts. This may be accompanied by plate-like scar tissue in the groove region, which may simulate groove pancreatic carcinoma. However, as opposed to carcinoma, the peripancreatic arteries are neither infiltrated nor encased, rather are medially displaced.

Groove Pancreatitis: A Brief Review of a Diagnostic Challenge

Groove pancreatitis is an uncommon, yet well-described, type of focal chronic pancreatitis, affecting “the groove”—the area between the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, and the common bile duct. Men aged 40 to 50 years are most commonly affected, with a history of alcohol abuse frequently disclosed. Clinical manifestations are similar to other forms of chronic pancreatitis, and vomiting secondary to duodenal stenosis is the main feature. It is postulated that pancreatitis in the groove area arises from obstruction of pancreatic juices in the ductal system, causing fibrosis and stasis with resultant inflammation of surrounding structures. The minor papilla is frequently the anatomic area of preferential involvement. Groove pancreatitis poses diagnostic challenges, forming a “pseudotumor” that mimics pancreatic carcinoma. The distinction is important, although often impossible to make because of their similar presentation, with groove pancreatitis usually affecting younger patients. Most patients are successfully treated with pancreaticoduodenectomy when definitive pathologic diagnoses can be made.

Groove Pancreatitis: Four Cases from a Single Center and Brief Review of the Literature

Groove pancreatitis is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis that affects the groove anatomical area between the head of the pancreas, duodenum, and common bile duct. We provide a summary of the clinical findings of 4 groove pancreatitis cases diagnosed at a tertiary academic medical center over a 5-year period. A detailed review of the current literature surrounding this clinical entity is also provided. Although rare, groove pancreatitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with pancreatic head mass lesions, as appropriate diagnosis can help avoid unnecessary surgical procedures.

Paraduodenal pancreatitis

Paraduodenal pancreatitis is a distinct clinicopathological entity involving the duodenum and the pancreatic tissue in the vicinity of the minor papilla. Most afflicted patients are young alcoholic males who present clinically with upper abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. Pancreatic tissue elements in the duodenal wall and impedance to exocrine pancreatic secretions at the minor papilla are key factors in the pathogenesis of this condition. On imaging, the condition may manifest as a solid fibrotic mass around the minor papilla or as cysts in the duodenum and the pancreaticoduodenal groove. Duodenal stenosis, biliary strictures, chronic calcifying pancreatitis, and pancreatic ductal dilatation are also often observed.

Cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall is not always associated with chronic pancreatitis

Cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall is a rare form of the disease which was described in 1970 by French authors who reported the presence of focal pancreatic disease localized in an area comprising the C-loop of the duodenum and the head of the pancreas. German authors have defined this area as a “groove”. We report our recent experience on cystic dystrophy of the paraduodenal space and systematically review the data in the literature regarding the alterations of this space. A MEDLINE search of papers published between 1966 and 2010 was carried out and 59 papers were considered for the present study; there were 19 cohort studies and 40 case reports. The majority of patients having groove pancreatitis were middle aged. Mean age was significantly higher in patients having groove carcinoma. The diagnosis of cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall can now be assessed by multidetector computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic ultrasonography. These latter two techniques may also add more information on the involvement of the remaining pancreatic gland not involved by the duodenal malformation and they may help in differentiating “groove pancreatitis” from “groove adenocarcinoma”. In conclusion, chronic pancreatitis involving the entire pancreatic gland was present in half of the patients with cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall and, in the majority of them, the pancreatitis had calcifications.

Characteristic clinical and pathologic features for preoperative diagnosed groove pancreatitis

Purpose

Groove pancreatitis is a rare specific form of chronic pancreatitis that extends into the anatomical area between the pancreatic head, the duodenum, and the common bile duct, which are referred to as the groove areas. We present the diagnostic modalities, pathological features and clinical outcomes of a series of symptomatic patients with groove pancreatitis who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Methods

Six patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy between May 2006 and May 2009 due to a clinical diagnosis of symptomatic groove pancreatitis were retrospectively included in the study.

Results

Five cases were male and one case was female, with a median age at diagnosis of 50 years. Their chief complaints were abdominal pain and vomiting. Abdominal computed tomography, endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography were performed. Preoperative diagnosis of all patients was groove pancreatitis. Histological finding was compatible with clinically diagnosed groove pancreatitis in five patients and the pathologic diagnosis of the remaining patient was adenocarcinoma of distal common bile duct. Following pancreaticoduodenectomy, four living patients experienced significant pain alleviation.

Conclusion

The diagnostic imaging modalities of choice for groove pancreatitis are computed tomography and endoscopic ultrasonography. If symptomatic groove pancreatitis is suspected, careful follow-up of patients is necessary and pancreaticoduodenectomy seems to be a reasonable treatment option.

Sonographic findings in groove pancreatitis

Groove pancreatitis is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis involving the anatomic plane between the pancreatic head and duodenum. The radiographic diagnosis remains challenging, and most patients undergo exploratory laparotomy on suspicion of a periampullary malignancy. The appearance of groove pancreatitis on transabdominal and intraoperative sonography has rarely been reported in the literature. The sonographic findings in our 2 patients included a hypoechoic thin area between the pancreatic head and duodenum, a hyperechoic and thickened wall of the adjacent duodenum, and a heterogeneous or hyperechoic dorsocranial part of the pancreatic head.

"Paraduodenal" pancreatitis: results of surgery on 58 consecutives patients from a single institution

BACKGROUND

Cystic dystrophy of heterotopic pancreas, groove pancreatitis, pancreatic hamartoma of the duodenum, paraduodenal wall cyst, and myoadenomatosis are all terms grouped together, from a pathological viewpoint, as definitions of paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP). The objective of the present study was to investigate the clinical characteristics, therapeutic strategies, and results in 58 patients undergoing pancreatic resection for PP.

METHODS

From January 1990 to December 2006 data were prospectively collected on 58 patients who were diagnosed with PP who then underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy.

RESULTS

In this patient cohort the median age was 44.7 years; only 4 patients were women, and only 3 had non-drinker and/or non smoker habits. The overall morbidity was 18.9%, and the median hospitalization was 11 days. There were no postoperative deaths. In a median follow-up of 96.3 months, all patients noted a decrease in the pain associated with PP; 35 patients (76%) had complete disappearance of pain, whereas occasional relapsing pain occurred in the remaining 11 (24%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PP have clinical characteristics similar to those of chronic pancreatitis. The diagnostic imaging modalities of choice are ultrasonographic endoscopy and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreaticography. Based on our surgical experience, pancreaticoduodenectomy seems to be a reasonable choice of treatment in patients with PP.

A comprehensive, case-based review of groove pancreatitis

Groove pancreatitis is an uncommon form of focal chronic pancreatitis that involves the duodenal wall or "groove" area (between the pancreas, common bile duct, and duodenum). It remains largely an unfamiliar entity to most physicians and is often misdiagnosed as pancreatic malignancy or autoimmune pancreatitis because of its "pseudotumor" formation. In this case series, we present 4 cases of groove pancreatitis which highlight important clinical aspects of this disease entity. We then provide a review of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition. We hope to clarify the salient aspects of this disease process and make groove pancreatitis a more recognized entity to the clinician.

Endoscopic therapy for chronic pancreatitis: technical success, clinical outcomes, and complications

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) can cause failure of both the exocrine and endocrine portions of the gland. Pain is the most recalcitrant clinical complaint in CP. Generally, conservative measures are first attempted to manage pain. These include cessation of alcohol use and smoking, enzyme replacement therapy, and finally, opioid analgesia. Endoscopy can be employed to treat the pain and complications due to CP. The results of the only two prospective randomized controlled trials suggest that surgery has a more durable effect than endoscopic therapy in controlling pain. Both trials suffer from severe limitations, however, and endoscopy remains the preferred approach for many patients because of its minimally invasive nature. Endoscopic ultrasound celiac plexus block has limited value in helping to control pain. More randomized trials are needed, along with further technologic innovation to improve the current treatment modalities. When considering interventional therapy for a patient with CP, a tailored and multidisciplinary therapeutic approach should be taken.

Groove pancreatitis: a diagnostic challenge

Groove pancreatitis is a distinct form of chronic pancreatitis characterized by inflammation and fibrous tissue formation, affecting the groove area between the head of the pancreas, the duodenum and the common bile duct. It is manifested on imaging by a sheet-like mass in the groove area near the minor papilla. Thickening of the duodenal wall and cystic transformation in the duodenal wall also represent common imaging features. Pathogenesis is still unclear, and clinical presentation is not specific. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrate imaging findings consistent with the disease in typical cases, but specific diagnosis is challenging in a number of patients where biopsy is required. The disease may mimic pancreatic, common bile duct or duodenal wall cancer that requires prompt and excessive surgical intervention, as opposed to groove pancreatitis where initial conservative treatment is suggested. The clinical, histopathological and radiological features on cross-sectional imaging of this entity are discussed in this review, and differential diagnostic clues are given.

Groove pancreatitis: MRI and pathologic findings

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose is to describe the MRI findings with pathologic correlation, in five patients with groove pancreatitis, a specific form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the groove between the pancreatic head, the common bile duct and duodenum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five patients with pathologically proven (four cases) and clinical and MRI findings (follow-up) consistent with the diagnosis of groove pancreatitis (one case) were reviewed. Three patients underwent cephalic pancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure) due to severe duodenal stenosis; MRI findings were correlated with the histological findings.

RESULTS

In all patients a mass was seen affecting the groove between the pancreatic head and the duodenum. Precontrast images demonstrated hypointense tissue relative to pancreatic parenchyma on T1-weighted images and iso to slightly hyperintense tissue on STIR and T2-weighted images. Postcontrast dynamic Gd-DTPA images, showed peripheral mass enhancement on immediate postgadolinium images and progressive and centripetal mass enhancement on delayed images with good delineation of multiple cysts. Histologically, fibro-inflammatory tissue was demonstrated in the groove and the duodenal wall with obliterative concentric scarring of the distal common bile duct.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI findings are demonstrative of the pathologic features characteristic of this entity: the fibrous tissue in the pancreaticoduodenal groove, the duodenal wall inflammation and the groove and/or duodenal wall cyst formation.