Laparoscopic resection of an insulinoma

Surgical excision of an insulinoma results in dramatic reversal of hypoglycemic symptoms. Laparoscopic resection, if feasible, could reduce postoperative discomfort. Successful laparoscopic resection of an insulinoma is described. Preoperative studies failed to visualize the tumor; however, it was visualized and then imaged successfully during surgery. The operative approach described allows access to the entire pancreas and, therefore, may be useful for islet cell tumors at most sites in the gland. Based on this case and others in the literature, further efforts at laparoscopic pancreatic surgery are warranted.