Re: pseudocysts and bypass surgery

[Guest guest]

Jean,

I had gastric bypass surgery to lose weight. It was before I was diagnosed

with pancreatitis. I lost 120 pounds after gastric bypass. I was very pleased

with it until all of these other problems started but as it turns out I have

pancreas divisum so I was already having problems and didn't realize it. My

gastric bypass was done lap so they didn't see it when they did it.

No problem on asking the question! Ask away!

Angie in SC

" The happiest of people don't necessarily have the

best of everything; they just make the best of everything that comes along

their way. "

[Guest guest]

I hear you all talking about pseudocysts and I really do not know what

they are. Will someone explain them to me and exactly what happens

with them and what they do to the patient.

Angie, If I may ask a personal question, I see you post about having

gastric bypass surgery. May I ask you why you had that did? Was it

to help the pancreas, a weight issue or why. If this is too personal,

just ignore me, but I didnt think it was done only when it had to be

done.

Rain or sunshine, keep smiling,

Jean

[Guest guest]

Pseudocysts of the Pancreas

What are pseudocysts of the pancreas?

Pseudocysts of the pancreas are abnormal collections of fluid, dead tissue,

pancreatic enzymes, and blood that can lead to a painful mass in the

pancreas. Pseudocysts usually develop several weeks after an episode of

acute pancreatitis (a sudden, painful inflammation of the pancreas).

Alcoholism also contributes to the risk of pseudocysts of the pancreas.

Other, more rare causes include abdominal trauma and gallbladder disease.

What are the symptoms of pseudocysts of the pancreas?

The following are the most common symptoms of pseudocysts of the pancreas.

However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may

include:

a.. abdominal pain

b.. nausea

c.. vomiting

d.. poor appetite

e.. weight loss

f.. diarrhea

g.. fever

h.. detectable, tender mass in the abdomen

i.. jaundice - yellowing of the skin and eyes.

j.. ascites - fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity.

The symptoms of pseudocysts of the pancreas may resemble other medical

conditions or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

How are pseudocysts of the pancreas diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination,

diagnostic procedures for pseudocysts of the pancreas may include the

following:

a.. blood tests

b.. chest x-ray - a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic

energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto

film.

c.. computed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan) - a diagnostic imaging

procedure using a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce

cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and

vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the

body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more

detailed than general x-rays.

d.. ultrasound (Also called sonography.) - a diagnostic imaging technique,

which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of

blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal

organs of the abdomen such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys and to assess

blood flow through various vessels.

e.. endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) - a procedure

that allows the physician to diagnose and treat problems in the liver,

gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. The procedure combines x-ray and the

use of an endoscope - a long, flexible, lighted tube. The scope is guided

through the patient's mouth and throat, then through the esophagus, stomach,

and duodenum. The physician can examine the inside of these organs and

detect any abnormalities. A tube is then passed through the scope, and a dye

is injected which will allow the internal organs to appear on an x-ray.

Treatment for pseudocysts of the pancreas:

Specific treatment for pseudocysts of the pancreas will be determined by

your physician based on:

a.. your age, overall health, and medical history

b.. extent of the disease

c.. your tolerance of specific medicines, procedures, or therapies

d.. expectations for the course of the disease

e.. your opinion or preference

The goal for treatment of a pancreatic pseudocyst is to monitor its growth

and to treat surgically if it grows, or if there is risk for complications.

Treatment may include:

a.. close monitoring by scans (to determine any change in size)

b.. surgical drainage of the cyst(s)

If left untreated or unmonitored, pseudocysts can rupture, causing extreme

pain, blood loss, and infection.

Re: pseudocysts and bypass surgery

>

>

> I hear you all talking about pseudocysts and I really do not know what

> they are. Will someone explain them to me and exactly what happens

> with them and what they do to the patient.

>

> Angie, If I may ask a personal question, I see you post about having

> gastric bypass surgery. May I ask you why you had that did? Was it

> to help the pancreas, a weight issue or why. If this is too personal,

> just ignore me, but I didnt think it was done only when it had to be

> done.

>

> Rain or sunshine, keep smiling,

>

> Jean

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