Stent implantation by ERCP in chronic pancreatitis in children [Therapeutische endoskopische stent-implantation bei chronischer pankreatitis im kindesalter]

An 11 year old girl suffered from chronic pancreatitis associated with pancreatic duct obstruction of unknown origin. After failure of conservative therapy an ERCP with sphincterotomy and bouginage was performed. Since this intervention did not prevent a relapse a stent was implanted into the Wirsungianius duct by ERCR. After spontaneous dislocation followed by recurrent abdominal pain and lipase elevation a second stent was implanted which was electively removed after a symptomless interval of six months. The chronic pancreatitis healed completely without further relapse. Discussion. In unsuccessful conservative therapy of chronic pancreatitis the endoscopic stent implantation is an excellent therapeutic alternative in childhood, not without risk, but less than that of invasive surgical therapy. In thouroughly explored cases and performed by an experienced endoscopist good long term results can be achieved.