Pancreatic Duct Stenting: Does Interventional Radiology Have a Role?

Abstract

Pancreatic duct stenting involves the placement of a stent into the pancreatic duct to restore drainage and flow of pancreatic secretions. It relieves upstream duct dilation, facilitates drainage of pancreatic secretions, and alleviates associated symptoms like pain, nausea, malnutrition, and recurrent pancreatitis. Additionally, it is utilized to treat a variety of pancreatic duct pathologies, including obstructions from conditions like chronic pancreatitis, malignancy, and pancreatic leaks. Depending on the clinical scenario, different types of stents can be placed using endoscopic, percutaneous, or surgical approaches. Endoscopic approaches, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasound-guided stenting, are often considered first-line procedures for managing pancreatic duct pathologies. However, in cases where these procedures fail, interventional radiology (IR) becomes crucial in managing these conditions, providing a safe and minimally invasive alternative that effectively addresses the underlying issues. This review aims to discuss the clinical, radiological, and technical considerations for pancreatic duct stenting and specifically highlight the role of IR in managing various pancreatic duct pathologies.