Pancreatic abscesses are collections of pus and necrotic tissue inside or outside the pancreas. Without treatment, this pathological condition leads to severe and often dramatic complications and almost always results in death.
If addressed in a timely manner, a pancreatic abscess can be successfully treated at the Israeli Ichilov clinic. The doctors of the gastroenterology department at Ichilov have undergone specialized long-term training and are proficient in all treatment methods for this complication of chronic pancreatitis. Patients have access to innovative technologies, the latest medications, and precise diagnostics that allow for the development of an optimal and effective treatment plan.
Thanks to a collegial integrative approach, the patient receives not just one medical opinion but the opinions of several experts, which eliminates the possibility of medical error and positively impacts the treatment process.
The clinic pays great attention to creating a favorable psychological atmosphere and comfortable accommodation conditions in the department. Each patient can take advantage of the services of a personal case manager who assists with everyday issues and formalities related to undergoing prescribed medical procedures. Feedback on the services of case managers is always positive.
Treatment Methods
Treatment of a pancreatic abscess can be medical, endoscopic, or surgical. The goals of these treatment methods are to relieve pain and restore the function of the endocrine and exocrine pancreas.
Medical Treatment
Patients with an abscess are prescribed antibiotics, as well as carbapenems, quinolones, and metronidazole. If the infectious study reveals the presence of gram-positive bacteria, vancomycin is also added while awaiting final culture results. Intravenous fluids and nutritional support are also indicated for the patient, as in any case of severe pancreatitis.
Endoscopic and Percutaneous Drainage
Drainage of the abscess through the skin (percutaneous) is possible. In some cases, abscess drainage can be performed via endoscopy using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Surgery for abscess drainage and removal of necrotic tissue is often required. The placement of a peripheral central catheter is indicated for patients needing prolonged antibacterial therapy.
Open Surgery
If necessary, to prevent recurrent episodes of severe pancreatitis, the patient may be recommended cholecystectomy in the case of concomitant gallstone pancreatitis.
Diagnostic Methods
The diagnostic examination at the Ichilov clinic consists of three main stages and is conducted in the shortest possible time to begin treatment as soon as possible.
Consultation (Examination)
Immediately upon arrival at the clinic, the doctor conducts an examination, clarifies symptoms, studies the medical history, and orders tests to clarify the diagnosis and identify or exclude concomitant pathological conditions.
Instrumental and Laboratory Studies
Tests and procedures that assist in diagnosis include:
- Blood tests. Blood is checked for elevated white blood cells used by the body to fight infection, as well as for abnormal levels of pancreatic and liver enzymes.
- Abdominal ultrasound. An ultrasound probe passes through the abdominal cavity, and images are sent to a computer monitor.
- ERCP or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography – a specialized endoscopic technique used to examine the bile ducts, pancreas, and liver.
- CT of the abdomen after contrast injection allows for three-dimensional images of the pancreas.
- MRI with contrast. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) with the introduction of a special type of contrast agent called gadolinium is increasingly used for diagnosing pancreatic necrosis or abscess.
Medical Council
Once the examination results are ready, an expert commission consisting of doctors from related specialties gathers to collegially develop the most optimal treatment plan. Later, the doctor conducts a conversation with the patient to inform them of the prognosis and explain what the therapy will entail.
- Computed Tomography
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
How Much Does Treatment of a Pancreatic Abscess Cost
The cost of treating the condition can vary from case to case due to differences in the patient's condition and the measures required for their recovery. The final price is calculated after the treatment plan is approved. The patient or their representative can obtain a consultation on the approximate cost of treatment by phone, contacting the medical consultant at the specified phone number, or leaving their phone number in any of the application forms so that the consultant can call them back.
Advantages of Treatment at Ichilov
- The Tel Aviv Medical Center Ichilov is a leading multidisciplinary medical institution in Israel, recognized worldwide as a leader in medical tourism. Newsweek magazine included the medical center in the top ten destinations for medical tourism.
- At Ichilov, patients can expect highly professional medical care that meets the strictest global standards.
- The integrative, multidisciplinary approach, which involves the collaborative interaction of several medical specialties, allows for comprehensive solutions and optimizes diagnosis and treatment.
- Ichilov is not just a hospital; it is one of the leading academic and research medical centers in Israel, at the forefront of research and innovation.
- The cost of treatment at Ichilov is much lower than at any other similar medical institution in the USA or Europe. Another significant advantage is the ability to arrange treatment directly at the medical center, without commissions (which eliminates unnecessary expenses).
If you or your loved ones have signs of the disease and wish to undergo treatment in Israel, do not waste time and contact us today. Our medical expert will assist in organizing a consultation and trip in the shortest possible time.