Experience with 95% pancreatectomy and splenic salvage for neonatal nesidioblastosis

Ann Surg. 1984 Sep;200(3):355-62. doi: 10.1097/00000658-198409000-00013.

Abstract

Conventional 85% pancreatectomy with splenectomy performed for management of hypoglycemia of neonatal nesidioblastosis has been followed by a dismal prognosis characterized by post-splenectomy sepsis, recurrent hypoglycemia, permanent brain damage, and a high mortality. For our last eight infants we have found it possible to remove at least 95% of the pancreas, preserving the blood supply to the spleen as well as the duodenum. This has permitted satisfactory control of the hypoglycemia and long-term septic complications have been avoided. Follow-up evaluation up to 20 years with successful control of hypoglycemia without progressive brain damage indicates the value of this primary extensive surgical approach.

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma, Islet Cell / surgery
  • Candidiasis / etiology
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemia / therapy
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Meningitis, Pneumococcal / etiology
  • Pancreatectomy / adverse effects
  • Pancreatic Diseases / surgery*
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / surgery
  • Pneumonia / etiology
  • Spleen / physiology
  • Splenectomy / adverse effects
  • Staphylococcal Infections / etiology