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Center for Pancreatic and Biliary Diseases

The Saint Louis University Center for Pancreatic and Biliary Diseases has been officially designated by the National Pancreas Foundation as a pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer center of excellence.

This prestigious recognition is awarded to leading health care organizations that demonstrate a commitment to providing multidisciplinary treatment, focusing on achieving the best possible clinical outcomes while enhancing the overall quality of life for their patients. Our center stands out as the only facility with this designation in the state of Missouri, underscoring our leadership in the field of pancreatic and biliary care.

What We Do

At our center, we take a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing, treating and managing a wide range of pancreatic conditions. These include acute and chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cysts and pancreatic cancer, among others. We also specialize in managing the complex complications associated with pancreatitis, such as necrotizing pancreatitis, fluid collections, ductal obstruction and chronic pain.

In addition to these services, our high-risk pancreas clinic is dedicated to the early detection and screening of pancreatic cancer in individuals at an increased risk due to a combination of factors. These may include genetic mutations linked to pancreatic cancer, underlying medical conditions or a significant family history of the disease.

At our high-risk pancreas clinic, patients receive a thorough and personalized assessment, which typically includes a comprehensive medical evaluation, advanced laboratory testing, imaging studies and endoscopic procedures, when necessary. By offering this full spectrum of care, we aim to provide early detection and intervention to improve patient outcomes.

Our Team

Our dedicated team is composed of highly trained and experienced professionals, including gastroenterologists with expertise in pancreatology and advanced therapeutic endoscopy, pancreatic and biliary surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, genetic counselors, and pain and nutrition specialists.

These specialists work together to provide truly integrated, patient-centered care. Our physicians are also faculty members at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, where they actively contribute and participate in numerous clinical research trials. 

Key Members

Headshot of Tarek Nammour

Tarek Nammour, M.D.

Advanced endoscopy and medical pancreatology
Assistant professor in internal medicine, gastroenterology
tarek.nammour@ssmhealth.com 


Headshot of Kiwan Wissam

Wissam Kiwan, M.D.

Advanced endoscopist
Assistant professor of internal medicine and gastroenterology
Program director, advanced endoscopy fellowship
wissam.kiwan@slucare.ssmhealth.com 


Headshot of Antonio Cheesman

Antonio Cheesman, M.D.

Advanced endoscopist
Assistant professor of internal medicine
Associate program director, gastroenterology
Director of endoscopy
antonio.cheesmanrocca@slucare.ssmhealth.com


Headshot of Marina Kim

Marina Kim, D.O.

Assistant professor of internal medicine and gastroenterology
Advanced endoscopy
marina.kim@ssmhealth.com