pseudocysts - to cindy

[Guest guest]

Dear Cindy,

A pseudocyst of 4 cm. isn't what the doctors would normally consider

large. It's usually any pseudocyst that's over 6 cm. that causes more

concern, as they feel a pseudocyst that large, or larger, has more

chance of rupturing and creating an emergency situation. Most often

when they are 4 cm. or less they resolve on their own in time. It

just depends on the individual and any previous history they may have

in this regard. Since you had one before and it did resolve, the

doctor may feel that this one will do the same.

I know the ERCP seems like a scary endeavor, especially with the

procedure's propensity to cause another pancreatitis attack. Did the

doctor's even mention doing an MRCP, instead? This is a test that

shows practically the same as the ERCP does, but it is non-invasive,

being done in a special chamber, and without the use of an endoscope.

I've had 2 MRCP's, but never an ERCP, fortunately. It's one procedure

that my doctor's have said wouldn't be of any benefit for my

particular situation, thank heavens! They did authorize the MRCP's,

though, and were able to see all the ductwork and parts of my pancreas

that couldn't be seen by CT-scans. Apparently, they were able to see

all that they needed to with the MRCP and because I don't have any

problems that could be corrected by utilization of the ERCP, I escaped

that particular procedure.

I hope you're having a good weekend. It's been hot as the devil here,

so I spent most of the afternoon floating on the river with Austin.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

www.pancassociation.org/anthology#Heidi.html

Bluffton, SC

SC State & SE Regional Representative

Pancreatitis Association, International

Note: All comments or advice are based on personal experience or

opinion only, and should not be substituted for professional medical

consultation.