Surgery to relieve pressure in the pancreas for patients with recurrent pancreatitis

SpHincterotomy for Acute Recurrent Pancreatitis

NIH-funded research Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10480901

This study is looking at whether a small surgery called minor papilla sphincterotomy can help people with pancreas divisum who have frequent bouts of pancreatitis, by easing pressure in the pancreatic ducts and hopefully reducing their attacks.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10480901 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of a surgical procedure called minor papilla sphincterotomy (miES) in patients suffering from recurrent acute pancreatitis (RAP) associated with a condition known as pancreas divisum. The study aims to determine if this procedure can reduce the frequency of pancreatitis attacks by alleviating increased pressure in the pancreatic ducts. Patients will be monitored over time to assess the outcomes and any potential complications from the surgery. The research is designed to provide more reliable data compared to previous studies that were limited in scope and methodology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with recurrent acute pancreatitis and pancreas divisum.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have recurrent acute pancreatitis or those with other underlying pancreatic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with recurrent acute pancreatitis, potentially reducing their hospitalizations and improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been small retrospective studies on this approach, this research aims to provide a more comprehensive evaluation, making it a novel and necessary investigation.

Where this research is happening

Portland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.