[Insulinoma. Results of surgical treatment]

The insulinoma is the most common pancreas tumour with endocrine activity, with more than 2,000 cases being described in the literature worldwide. The first successful extirpation was performed by Graham in 1928. Clinical appearance is characterized by severe paroxysmal hypoglycaemia together with inadequately increased serum insulin levels. Surgery is indicated in such situations because of limited effectiveness of medicamentous therapy. Surgical approach and long-time results are discussed in this paper, with reference being made to 13 cases of the authors.