Tidelands Health gastroenterologists showcase rare digestive health case on global stage
April 10, 2026
Tidelands Health gastroenterologists recently displayed the results of a rare and life-threatening clinical case at the International Pancreatobiliary Meeting, or IPBM 2026.
Drs. Raif Elsakr and Wesley Benson of Tidelands Health Gastroenterology were invited to display their case, “Life-Threatening Cholangitis Caused by an Infected Periampullary Diverticulum Managed with a Staged Endoscopic Approach” at the conference in Seoul, South Korea, in April. 
The case detailed how Drs. Elsakr and Benson used a highly coordinated, staged endoscopic strategy to restore the patient’s health without the need for surgery.
“This case truly demonstrates the advanced skill and adaptability of our digestive health team,” Dr. Elsakr said. “Displaying at an international conference allowed us to share the innovative approach we use right here at Tidelands Health. This is the level of care our community can access close to home.”
The critically ill patient came to Tidelands Health with severe cholangitis and sepsis, a life‑threatening infection caused when bile ducts become inflamed or blocked. Drs. Elsakr and Benson discovered the condition was triggered by an infected periampullary diverticulum, a small pouch near the area where the bile duct drains. These pouches are common in older adults and usually don’t cause any problems. But, in rare cases, one can become blocked or infected and lead to a serious condition known as Lemmel syndrome.
“The fact that we were able to diagnose the issue so quickly and deliver a successful treatment plan speaks to the high level of digestive health care patients can receive at Tidelands Health,” Dr. Benson said.
With a team of board‑certified specialists, Tidelands Health Gastroenterology can diagnose and treat a wide range of digestive conditions, including acid reflux, celiac disease, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, gallstones, colon cancer, hepatitis C and more.
Learn more at tidelandshealth.org, or call 1‑866‑TIDELANDS to make an appointment.
About Tidelands Health
Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.
