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Annular Pancreas
Congenital condition where pancreatic tissue completely surrounds the duodenum, potentially causing intestinal obstruction.
Full Definition
Annular pancreas is a rare congenital anomaly where pancreatic tissue forms a complete ring around the second portion of the duodenum. This can result in partial or complete duodenal obstruction, presenting in neonates with bilious vomiting or in older children with intermittent symptoms. Surgical treatment involves duodenoduodenostomy or duodenojejunostomy to bypass the obstruction, rather than attempting to divide the pancreatic tissue which risks pancreatic fistula. The condition may be associated with other congenital anomalies including Down syndrome and congenital heart disease.
In Context
- "Upper GI series revealed the characteristic 'double bubble' sign consistent with annular pancreas." — Radiology report
- "Surgical bypass was performed for symptomatic annular pancreas causing duodenal obstruction." — Operative report
Don't confuse with
Duodenal atresia
Malrotation