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Best Annular Pancreas Doctor
Annular pancreas is a rare developmental anomaly whereby the pancreatic connective tissue encases the duodenum which may cause obstruction. Dr. Scott (GastroDoxs) in Houston is dedicated to a diagnosis, tailored noninvasive treatment and surgery as a method to restore the quality of life and digestive health.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Deformation of the duodenum of the growth of the pancreatic tissue.
Family history of congenital digestive or pancreatic disease.
Association with other birth disorders, such as Down syndrome.
The excessive amniotic fluid in the womb (polyhydramnios).
The determinants of the pancreas development are not known, either genetic, or environmental.
Signs and Symptoms
Child feeding issues and green (vomiting) gallerstomiasis.
Incorrect weight gains and swellings in babies.
Old children and adults have painful feelings in the upper abdomen that are repeated.
Nausea, early fullness, bloating or refluxes.
In other instances, periodical diarrhea or malabsorption.
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Annular Pancreas?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He explores the history of birth and being fed, documents the nature of epigastric pain, vomiting, slow growth and family risks.
Physical Examination
He will examine the abdomen palpation to identify tenderness or distension and the nutritional status.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal Ultrasound to investigate the presence of a pancreatic ring that is surrounding the duodenum.
To ascertain the anatomy, CT Scan or MRI of the anatomy to be sure the annular ring is present and otherwise.
Contrast X-Ray (Upper GI Series)
Liquid contrast study refers to duodenum and reveals the obstruction of pancreatic ring.
Blood Tests
Laboratory work-up needs to be done to rule out pancreatitis or malabsorption with pancreatic enzymes (amylase/lipase) and liver functional tests and nutritional markers.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for annular pancreas.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Taking small and more frequent meals to relieve symptoms.
Consumption of low-fat foods, which contain high levels of fiber in order to facilitate the digestive process.
Staying hydrated in order to support intestinal functioning.
Storing food journal to avoid triggers.
2. Medications
Enzyme supplements to aid the digestion of the nutrients.
Antacidine medicines to treat heartburn and reflux.
Pain treatment, which is clinically monitored.
3. Minimally Invasive and Surgical Interventions
In other instances, implantation of endoscopic stents to overcome the hindrance.
An operation was performed to form another food channel.
Traditional surgery to remove or replace the annular pancreatic tissue.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How rare is this condition?
The frequency of annular pancreas is 12-15000 per newborns.
Does it manifest itself in adulthood?
Yes. Some are ones who do not display the symptoms until their twenties or thirties.
Is surgery always required?
No. Mild ones will probably be treated in response to diet and medication. Surgery is recommended in case of a huge intestinal obstruction.
What is your experience of post-surgery?
Most of the patients recover within few days. The least intrusive measures may lead to the few days stay in the hospital.
Could it happen that annular pancreas is the cause of diabetes?
It is uncommon. Dr. Scott will test your sugar level because he might be required to do away with diabetes.
Does it have support groups within Houston?
Yes. Dr. Scott can provide you with the list of local support groups of people with pancreatic conditions.
What will I get as postdischarge treatment?
To check the state of progress and digestion, you can schedule regular visits to Dr. Scott and radiographic tests.
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