Acute Pancreatitis FAQ: When Endoscopies (EGDs) Go Bad, Acute Pancreatitis Can Result

More than 6 million endoscopies (EGDs) are performed each year. Poorly administered EGDs can cause a serious health problem called acute pancreatitis. Below are questions and answers regarding acute pancreatitis and the connection to EGDs. The source for this information is The National Pancreas Foundation.

What is acute pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that is painful and sometimes deadly.

How common is acute pancreatitis?

Each year more than 300,000 people are hospitalized with acute pancreatitis.

What causes acute pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis can be caused by: gallstones; high triglyceride levels in the blood; high calcium levels in the blood; or excess consumption of alcohol. Also, improper administration of an EGD can cause acute pancreatitis.

What are symptoms of acute pancreatitis?

Symptoms can include pain in the upper abdomen; nausea; vomiting; fever; and rapid pulse.

What are possible outcomes from acute pancreatitis?

Most patients recover from acute pancreatitis. However, it can lead to chronic problems, such as pain, nausea and other gastrointestinal issues.

What is the mortality rate for acute pancreatitis?

The mortality rate is 10% and has remained unchanged in the last 20 years.

What is acute pancreatitis caused by EGD?

EGDs are a widely used method for diagnosing upper gastrointestinal problems. It is estimated that more than 6 million EGDs are performed annually. During an EGD, a tube with a camera attached is inserted into the body. EGD mistakes can cause acute pancreatitis.

What should you do if you think an EGD caused your acute pancreatitis?

If you suspect an EGD caused your acute pancreatitis, contact the law firm of Pfaff, Gill & Ports, Ltd. Our attorneys can examine the facts of your case and determine whether you were the victim of negligent care.