[Experimental studies on the earliest echographic manifestations of incipient pancreatitis and pancreatic necrosis]

The earliest echographic manifestations of developing pancreatitis or pancreatic necrosis were studied experimentally in five dogs (Beagles). Fifteen minutes after induction of pancreatitis the pancreas was removed and accurately corresponding histological and sonographic serial sections were prepared. Pancreatic necrosis up to 25% was not apparent sonographically. 50% pancreatic necrosis manifested various echo patterns (low echoes, focal hyperechogenicity). 75% and 100% pancreatic necrosis showed characteristic sonographic appearances of focal-nodular hyperechogenicity on an hypo-echogenic background. The study has shown that sonography is a highly sensitive method for recognizing even the earliest stages of acute necrotizing pancreatitis.