Acute Pancreatitis
Immediate and expert treatment to manage sudden inflammation of the pancreas
Understanding Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that helps with digestion and blood sugar control. The condition can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening illness. It often comes on quickly and needs immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications such as infections, organ failure, or fluid buildup.
This condition is part of HPB (Hepatopancreaticobiliary) diseases, which affect the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts. Unlike chronic pancreatitis, which develops slowly over time, acute pancreatitis strikes suddenly and can escalate quickly if untreated.
- Sudden inflammation of the pancreas, often very painful.
- Needs urgent care to avoid complications
When Should You Seek A Specialist
Symptoms Of Acute Pancreatitis
Persistent Abdominal
pain
Pain that starts suddenly in the abdomen and often radiates to the back.
Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
A liver lesion may block bile ducts, leading to yellow discoloration and itching.
Persistent
Vomiting
Repeated nausea and vomiting that does not ease with rest or medications.
Fever and rapid heartbeat
Warning signs of infection or systemic inflammation.
Swollen or tender abdomen
Indicates internal fluid collection or pancreatic swelling.
Known history of alcohol use
Increases risk for acute pancreatitis attacks.
Common Causes of Acute Pancreatitis
Understanding why it happens helps in both treatment and prevention
Gallstones
Small stones in the gallbladder can block the pancreatic duct, triggering sudden inflammation.
Certain medications
Some drugs may cause side effects that irritate or inflame the pancreas.
Heavy alcohol use
Even short-term binge drinking or chronic excess use can inflame the pancreas.
High triglyceride levels
Extremely elevated blood fats can damage the pancreas and spark acute attacks.
Pancreatic injury or surgery
Trauma or medical procedures near the pancreas may lead to inflammation.
How We Diagnose?
Elevated pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase) confirm inflammation.
Ultrasound scan detects gallstones, duct blockages, and pancreatic swelling.
Offers detailed imaging to check for complications such as necrosis or fluid collections.
Medical history and examination helps identify triggers such as alcohol use, gallstones, or medications.
Personalized treatments backed by expertise.
Treatment Options
Gallstone Removal (ERCP or Surgery)
If gallstones are the cause, endoscopic or surgical removal is performed.
Pain Relief and Resting the Pancreas
Strong medications and fasting to allow the pancreas to heal.
Hospitalization and Supportive Care
IV fluids, oxygen, and monitoring to stabilize the patient.
Surgery for complications
In severe cases, drainage or resection surgery may be required to treat necrosis, infection, or blockages.
Why Trust Us for Acute Pancreatitis Treatment?
Combined expertise of two leading liver surgeons
Dr. Vikas Patel has been part of more than 600 liver transplants, while Dr. Dharmendra Dangi has been part of over 500 liver transplants and performed 500+ complex liver and HPB surgeries. Together, they bring unmatched skill to even the toughest cases.
Experience with high-risk and pediatric cases
From critically ill adults to children needing delicate surgery, our team has successfully managed some of the most challenging and rare liver conditions. Both doctors are trained to manage challenging cases, including liver failure in children, elderly patients, and blood group mismatches.
Proven results using advanced techniques
We use the latest surgical and medical methods including minimally invasive procedures to ensure safer operations, faster recovery, and long-term success. Dr. Dangi is one of the few surgeons in India performing midline donor hepatectomy, a safer way to remove part of the liver from a living donor.
Nationally recognized for excellence
Our surgeons are trusted across India for their leadership in liver surgery. Their work has been featured in medical journals, presented at national conferences, and acknowledged in health magazines such as Silicon India (Top 10 Liver Transplant Surgeons, 2025).
OUR APPROACH
Accurate Diagnosis
using advanced imaging and testing
Personalized Treatment Plans
based on your stage and condition
Complete Pre & Post Transplant Support
when surgery is needed
A Multidisciplinary Team
Both surgeons jointly plan and perform procedures to ensure the best outcomes.
FAQ
Common Questions We Hear From Patients
Your concerns are valid. Here are expert answers to help you make confident decisions about your liver health.
Yes, if untreated, severe acute pancreatitis can lead to infections, organ failure, or death. With timely hospital care, most patients recover.
Mild cases resolve in about a week with hospital care, but severe cases may take weeks or months.
Yes, especially if the underlying cause (like alcohol or gallstones) is not treated. Preventive care is key.
Patients are advised to avoid alcohol, fatty, oily, and processed foods as they strain the pancreas.
Yes, avoiding alcohol, managing cholesterol, and treating gallstones early can significantly reduce risk.
Not directly, but repeated attacks can increase the risk of chronic pancreatitis, which may raise cancer risk.
Seek emergency medical care immediately. Acute pancreatitis can worsen quickly without treatment.
Take the First step to a
Don’t Ignore Severe Pain
Acute pancreatitis is a serious condition that can worsen rapidly without timely care. Early diagnosis and specialized treatment greatly improve outcomes and prevent complications.
Talk to Ahmedabad’s Trusted Liver Experts
At our liver transplant and HPB surgery care center, you are cared for by Dr. Vikas Patel and Dr. Dharmendra Dangi, two leading liver and HPB surgeons in India. With unmatched expertise in both simple and complex cases, they work together to bring you the best chance at recovery.