What is spincter of Oddi dysfunction?

Hello Anonymous,

A person who has had her gallbladder removed is most likely to develop sphincter of Oddi dysfunction. The procedure by which the gall bladder is removed is called cholecystectomy, and some doctors refer to sphincter of Oddi dysfunction as post-cholecystectomy syndrome. Middle-aged women also appear to be at increased risk for the condition, although doctors aren’t sure why.

The liver, pancreas, and the sphincter of Oddi play a role in the process of digestion. The liver produces bile and the pancreas produces pancreatic juices. These important chemicals flow from the liver and pancreas into the small intestine to help with digestion. The flow of these chemicals is controlled by muscle called the sphincter of Oddi.

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction is a condition in which the sphincter muscle does not open when it should. This prevents the bile and pancreatic juice from flowing through and causes a backup of digestive juices. The backup can cause bouts of severe pain in the abdomen.

I hope this information is helpful.

Maryann