Endoscopic transpapillary drainage of the main pancreatic duct is a novel, non-surgical method for the treatment of chronic pancreatitis. It seems to be particularly suited for the obstructive form characterized by dilatation of the duct system due to stenoses. Up to now drainages could be successfully performed in five out of six patients. In three cases a divided pancreas was present. The preliminary results are favourable: pain was almost completely eliminated and the patients gained weight. Complications due to the intervention have not been registered as yet. There was no obstruction or dislocation of catheters over an observation period of up to 18 weeks.