Objectives: Endoscopic stents are a validated treatment for painful chronic calcifying pancreatitis (CCP). Biliary-type stents are the most commonly used, but have certain drawbacks. The aim of this single-center retrospective study was to evaluate the feasibility, and the short- and medium-term efficacy of a new pancreatic stent (Johlin model, Cook) for pain relief.
Methods: Thirteen patients with painful CCP were treated with a Johlin stent. Stent specifications were studied as well as feasibility and efficacy. Success was defined as relief of pain.
Results: There was no placement failure with the initial stent, which was 13.4+/-2.1cm in length and 9.8+/-0.6 Fr in diameter. Immediate total pain relief following stenting occurred in 11 patients. The average follow-up time was 11+/-7 months (range 1.5-24 months). Stents were left in place for 4.5+/-3 months (range 0.5-13.5 months). At the end of follow-up, endoscopic treatment was considered effective in 12 patients. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatographic (ERCP) complications consisted of uncomplicated acute pancreatitis (10%).
Conclusion: Pancreatic stenting using the Johlin stent (Cook) is feasible, has no particular adverse events and is effective for immediate as well as medium-term pain improvement.