Hey Thanks a ton for sharing that information,
But what is this ERCP ?
Could you tell me breifly ?
Thanking you
Chiru
As you already know, pancreatitis is one of the more frustrating and difficult medical problems a person can be faced with. Since you already know what is causing the problem (sludge in the duct) is there a reason the doctor hasn't perfomed an ERCP to clean it out? Placement of stents can sometimes help to keep the duct open a bit further to prevent more sludge formation, but they also tend to fall out.
In the meantime, if your dad isn't seeing a Pain Management specialist, he needs to get one. Pancreatitis is one of the most painful conditions to deal with, and he needs some strong medication to deal with that. The pancreas is such a sensitive organ. Some people end up with chronic pancreatitis and a lifetime of pain after only one acute attack.
As to your question about the existence of any new treatments, I know of none. Chronic pancreatitis is still treated by treating the symptoms. Well, unless there is an underlying problem like a pseudo cyst or cancer that would require surgery. If you and your dad are not convinced that he's getting the best opinion possible, you'll need to get a second opinion. Actually, second opinions are a good idea any time you're dealing with a major medical issue. :-)