DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2025.v11i01.018

Pages: 89-95

Background: Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive inflammatory condition of the pancreas, leading to irreversible structural damage, pain, and functional impairment, including malabsorption and diabetes mellitus. Its clinical presentation varies, often including recurrent abdominal pain, weight loss, and steatorrhea. This study aimed to evaluate clinical presentation and treatment outcomes of chronic pancreatitis. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic & Liver Transplantation Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh from July 2005 to June 2008. A total of 30 diagnosed patients with chronic pancreatitis were enrolled purposively. Data were analyzed by using MS Office tools. Results: Most patients in this study present with recurrent upper abdominal pain, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting in 60% of cases. The pain is typically dull, relieved by antispasmodics, and improves on an empty stomach or when leaning forward. Treatment outcomes reveal that 80% of patients undergo surgery, with 7 experiencing complications such as external pancreatic fistula, wound infections, and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Some patients experience pain recurrence, requiring revision surgery. A small percentage receive medical treatment or undergo ERCP for pain and related complications. Conclusion: Chronic pancreatitis patients often have recurrent upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The pain is dull, relieved by antispasmodics, and improves when the stomach is empty or leaning forward. Surgery outcomes are generally positive, though complications like pancreatic fistula, infections, and exocrine insufficiency may occur. Some require revision surgery.