Chronic pancreatitis with narrowing of pancreatic duct & stones in pancreas – this condition will need Frey’s procedure for pain relief. The patients with chronic pancreatitis who do not have pain, will not be benefited by Frey’s procedure.
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Frey’s procedure is a surgical technique over the pancreas. It is performed for chronic pancreatitis. Here the disease part of head of pancreas is cored out as an initial step. The surgeon then joins small intestine with the pancreas.
Chronic pancreatitis with narrowing of pancreatic duct & stones in pancreas – this condition will need Frey’s procedure for pain relief. The patients with chronic pancreatitis who do not have pain, will not be benefited by Frey’s procedure.
The Frey’s procedure is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Recovery usually takes 5-7 days after operation. In some patient it may take a bit longer time. Your doctor will gradually increase your diet. You will be given pain killers & antibiotics. There may be tube coming out of your tummy which will be removed once it stops poring fluid or as per the advise of your doctor.
Possible risks following the Frey procedure include infection, bleeding and a leakage from the suture line. If any of the above complications happen then your doctor will advise you regarding further treatment options.
Where to get help
Frey’s procedure is an operation for long-standing (chronic) pancreatitis with constant pain and a blocked, widened pancreatic duct. It is considered only after scans, and when medicines, diet changes and endoscopic treatment have not controlled the pain.
Dr Harsh Shah, MS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology), DrNB (Surgical Gastroenterology), is a surgical gastroenterologist. He sees stomach, bowel, liver and pancreas problems at his Gota OPD, and operates at Apollo Hospital, Bhat, Gandhinagar when surgery is needed.
Read more: gastro surgeon in Ahmedabad
Related: Pancreatitis treatment · Pancreatitis treatment · Greasy stools (steatorrhoea) · Why a pancreas problem is hard to catch early
OPD: Shah’s Gastro, Cancer & Robotic Surgery Centre, SF-203, 2nd floor, Olive Greens, Gota, S G Highway, Ahmedabad 382481. Call to book. Bring your old reports; second opinions are welcome.
Last updated: 4 October 2026
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