[Late results after surgery in chronic pancreatitis (author's transl)]

122 patients were operated upon because of chronic pancreatitis within 15 1/2 years. Mortality during and immediately after surgery was 9.8%, later mortality was 4.9%. 104 patients were still alive at follow up. In 40 patients most of the pancreatic parenchyma was left during surgery. Late results were good or satisfactory in 67.5%; carbohydrate tolerance was impaired in 35%, and exocrine insufficiency of the pancreas was present in 32.5% of these cases. In another group most of the pancreas was removed; 86% of these patients improved permanentely, 46% had impaired carbohydrate metabolism, 83% exocrine insufficiency of the pancreas. Good results can be achieved, if impaired carbohydrate metabolism, 83% exocrine insufficiency of the pancreas. Good results can be achieved, if indications are carefully choosen. Personality traits of the patients have to be taken into account when choosing the surgical approach. Advantages of a two session surgical approach combined with conservative treatment are discussed.