Total pancreatectomy of end-stage chronic pancreatitis

The metabolic consequences and the clinical results of total pancreatectomy for end-stage chronic pancreatitis are detailed. This experience, accumulated between the years 1952 and 1976, adds 26 cases to the world's literature, which now contains 53 cases reported singly or in small series. The patients were selected on the basis of far-advanced, incapacitating disease in three patients and the failure of 62 previous related operations in 23 patients. Total pancreatectomy was performed with a zero hospital mortality but with serious inhospital morbidity. After discharge, 24 patients required 55 hospital readmissions and 18 related surgical operations; 12 patients have died, five of unrelated causes. Of 14 living patients, five consider themselves to be in good to excellent condition, six in fair condition, and three in poor condition. Twelve thought they were improved over their preoperative state. Our estimate of the result in living patients was similar. In those 12 who died, only four had satisfactory results. The results are also evaluated relative to level of activity, presence of abdominal pain, use of narcotics, weight, alcohol consumption, and the efficiency of endocrine and exocrine replacement. In general, the procedure is effective for relief or amelioration of pain, but the patients' personalities preclude complete adaptation to the apancreatic state rehabilitation. A failure to thrive is the common denominator.