New scope procedure aims to calm chronic pancreatitis pain

NCT ID NCT04232670

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a procedure called pancreatic endotherapy can reduce pain in people with chronic pancreatitis whose main pancreatic duct is blocked by stones or narrowings. Fourteen adults with severe daily pain were randomly assigned to get either an ultrasound alone or the full endotherapy (which may include stone removal, duct widening, or stent placement). The main goal was to see if pain scores dropped over 90 days. The results could help doctors decide if this invasive approach is worth the risks for long-term pain relief.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Pancreatic endotherapy (a procedure using an endoscope to remove stones, widen narrow ducts, or place stents)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a way to ease severe abdominal pain in people with chronic pancreatitis and blocked pancreatic ducts.

What could go wrong

This was a very small study (14 people) with no clear phase, so results may not apply widely. The procedure itself carries risks like bleeding, infection, or pancreatitis flare-ups.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic pancreatitis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Medical University of South Carolina

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States

  • Oregon Health & Science University

    Portland, Oregon, 97035, United States