Function and role of pancreatic stents

The function and role of a pancreatic stent, or pancreatic duct stent, is primarily to drain pancreatic fluid and relieve pressure on the pancreas. Pancreatic duct stents are mainly used for endoscopic insertion of pancreatic ducts for internal drainage of pancreatic fluid, which is secreted by the pancreas into the intestine. Pancreatic duct stenting is a symptomatic treatment modality to address pancreatic obstruction and is commonly used for conditions such as benign pancreatic stenosis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic duct stones, pancreatic division, pancreatic pseudocysts, and pancreatic fistulae due to traumatic pancreatic injury. Most of the pancreatic duct stents used in the clinic are plastic stents, the models include 5F, 7F, 8.5F and 10F caliber, the larger the caliber, the longer the life of the stent, the average service life is about 3-4 months. Pancreatic duct stents need to be replaced regularly after placement, otherwise they may not be able to drain the pancreatic fluid. Whether or not to implant a pancreatic duct stent should be fully evaluated for specific reasons, and it is recommended that patients go to a regular hospital to see a specialist for detailed consultation and complete the relevant selection.