Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Annular pancreas
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Annular pancreas: An abnormal ring of pancreas that encircles the duodenum and often causes intestinal obstruction.
Nausea and vomiting are the usual symptoms and reflect the intestinal obstruction. Complete obstruction is usually evident in the newborn period. Partial obstruction may not present until later in childhood or adulthood.
Diagnostic tests include upper GI series, abdominal CT scan, and endoscopy. The treatment is surgical. Complications include peptic ulcer disease and perforation of the intestine.
"Annular" is the adjective for "annulus" (a little ring).