Abstract

The effect of highly selective vagotomy on pancreatic exocrine function and the release of gastrin and cholecystokinin was studied in 10 patients with endoscopically-proven duodenal ulceration. Cholecystokinin and gastrin concentrations in serum both increased significantly after highly selective vagotomy. Amylase concentration in the duodenal aspirate increased significantly after vagotomy, but trypsin concentration remained unchanged. The expected reductions in gastric acid secretion were noted. Thus highly selective vagotomy reduces acid secretion effectively in patients with duodenal ulcer without impairing the exocrine function of the pancreas.