Gastrocure

Sphincter

Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction

The sphincter of Oddi is a ring-shaped valve between the lower common bile duct and the duodenum (part of the small intestine). Pancreatic juices and bile flow through the sphincter of Oddi during the digestive process.

If the contractions of the sphincter of Oddi is disturbed (i.e., there is a motility dysfunction) as digestive juices are flowing through, this is known as biliary dyskinesia.

On rare occasions, the valve does not function properly or is blocked. This is called papillary stenosis, and the following symptoms may result:

• Pain localized near the pancreas
• Jaundice caused by bile leaking into the blood stream
• Attacks of pancreatitis

Causes of papillary stenosis include:

• Celiac disease
• Autoimmune pancreatitis
• Bile duct stones (gallstones)
• Scarring of the bile duct

To diagnose a problem with the sphincter of Oddi, physicians may use sphincter of Oddi manometry, which measure the squeeze pressure of this sphincter between the pancreas and small intestine.

Laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder or of the sphincter may alleviate the symptoms.

If symptoms persist call Gastrocure in West Orange, NJ at 973-736-1112 to schedule an appointment