Ectopic pancreas associated with a choledochal cyst and extrahepatic biliary atresia

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Updated: Oct 3, 2026

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults
04:14

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults

Published on: February 28, 2025

T R Prasad1, S D Gupta, V Bhatnagar

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.

Pediatric Surgery International
|October 23, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Two children with ectopic pancreatic tissue were found during surgery for biliary atresia and choledochal cysts. Excision is recommended to prevent serious complications from this pancreatic tissue.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Ectopic pancreatic tissue is a rare congenital anomaly.
  • Extrahepatic biliary atresia (EHBA) and choledochal cysts (CC) are significant pediatric hepatobiliary conditions.
  • The co-occurrence of these conditions with ectopic pancreas is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • This report details two pediatric cases where ectopic pancreatic tissue in the jejunum was incidentally discovered during surgical correction for EHBA and CC.
  • Literature review revealed no prior reports of CC associated with ectopic pancreas and only one case of EHBA with ectopic pancreas.

Findings:

  • The study highlights the rare association between EHBA/CC and ectopic pancreatic tissue.
  • The incidental finding of ectopic pancreatic tissue necessitates careful consideration despite the absence of symptoms.

Implications:

  • Surgical excision of incidentally detected ectopic pancreatic tissue is advised, even in asymptomatic patients.
  • This prophylactic measure aims to mitigate risks of future complications, including pancreatitis, cystic degeneration, and malignant transformation.
  • Early detection and management are crucial for improving long-term outcomes in pediatric patients with these rare conditions.

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