A retrospective analysis was performed of 87 patients with pancreatic pseudocysts admitted at the Dept. of Surgery University of Hamburg from 1985 to 1989. Pseudocysts as a result of chronic pancreatitis were found in 54%. 42 patients underwent 49 operations, 35 have been drained endoscopically. In 10 cases there was spontaneous remission. 25 patients were treated by Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy. In 14 patients a resection of the pancreas was performed. The mean follow-up interval was 26 (operative treated) and 22 months (endoscopic treatment). 50% of all patients in both groups reported pain relief. The mortality in operated patients was 7% and 0% for endoscopic treatment. In ten cases a recurrent disease was observed.