Hyperinsulinism

Abstract

HYPERINSULINISM caused by a functioning islet cell tumor of the pancreas is an uncommon but well established metabolic entity which can usually be accurately diagnosed. Treatment is surgical and, when exploration reveals a benign adenoma, can be accomplished safely with expectation of cure. Indications for treatment are less definite, and results less favorable, if no grossly recognizable lesion is found in the pancreas at the time of surgical exploration. It has been our practice, under these circumstances, to resect the tail and body of the pancreas. The advisability of this practice has been questioned.^1-3 The present study was undertaken to review our experience in the surgical treatment of patients with the preoperative diagnosis of insulinoma, particular consideration being given to those in whom no tumor was found on exploration. For this purpose, we reviewed the findings in 154 patients operated on in the years 1927 through 1965 who had