Management of Pancreatic Duct Strictures, Leaks, and Disconnected Pancreatic Duct Syndrome

Pancreatic duct (PD) strictures, leaks, and disconnected ducts are important morphologic consequences of inflammatory disease of the pancreas, resulting in abdominal pain, pancreatic ascites, pancreatic pleural effusion, and external pancreatic fistula. Traditionally, these PD complications were treated surgically, but a better understanding of their pathophysiology, along with advancement in endoscopic interventions, has transformed the therapy from morbid surgical interventions to minimally invasive, safe, and effective endoscopic treatment. This review discusses the current diagnostic and management strategies for PD strictures, leaks, and disconnected pancreatic ducts.