New scope procedure aims to calm chronic pancreatitis pain

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.