Re: Effect of Pancreatic Enzymes on furrounding Tissues / Eddie

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 12/1/2002 8:50:59 PM US Eastern Standard Time,

erkline1@... writes:

>>>You wrote that your pancreas enzymes are destroying other organs, is this

doctor's diagnosis or a theory you have?<<<

Hi Eddie,

Sorry to be so late in responding. The pain management doctor I saw

explained that to me. It explains why so many people who have the Total

Pancreatectomy are still in pain even after removal of their entire pancreas.

He said it was not like the phantom pain of amputees, but that there is

actual damage of the spinal cord nerves, primarily.

It also explains why so many people require a Spleenectomy at the time of

their Partial Pancreatectomy. The spleen sits adjacent to the tail of the

pancreas. A Distal Pancreatectomy is done when there has been extensive auto

digestion from the caustic enzymatic activity of Pancreatitis. The

pancreatic enzymes do not limit themselves to pancreatic tissue. They are

caustic, like battery acid, and will destroy anything they comes in contact

with. This also happened in my case; the injuries to the spleen caused a

thrombus in the spleenic vein.

I will look for some data that I can reference to support this information.

As of now, I would only accept it as here say, which is what everything you

hear on this message board. My doctor has a lot of experience and I trust

him. However, in the past I made a decision based on information I received

from a doctor that I think was the wrong decision I wish I had researched it

myself and seen it in writing. I have learned that the doctors are on as

much a learning curve as we are.

I did bounce this theory off Dr. Sutherland, who is in Minneapolis and does

the Total Pancreatectomy and Islet Cell Transplant surgery. He agreed and

said that is why he is not always able to guarantee that he can get rid of

the pain. He did say that it may prevent further damage, however.

The reason that he said that it may vs will is that there is inconclusive

evidence re: the burn out theory. If the pancreas does burn out, then that

should prevent further damage. There is medical disagreement about pancreatic

burnout vs pancreatic atrophy. Atrophy doesn't necessarily determine the

complete obliteration of pancreatic function.

I am interested in others' thoughts, experiences, or information obtained

from research or healthcare providers.

Karyn E. , RN

Founder / Executive Director

Pancreatitis Association International

Corp. Office: Indps, IN, USA 1-