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Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Debridement and Drainage for Pancreatic Abscess
Published on: March 15, 2024
Clinical management of patients with acute pancreatitis
1Center for Pancreatic Care, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA. bechien.u.wu@kp.org
Abstract:
Acute pancreatitis is the leading cause of hospitalization for gastrointestinal disorders in the United States. As rates of hospitalization for acute pancreatitis continue to increase, so does demand for effective management. We review approaches to best manage patients with acute pancreatitis, covering diagnosis, risk and prognostic factors, treatment, and complications, considering recommendations from current practice guidelines.
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Assessment:
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Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
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