Microsurgical approach to pancreatic duct occlusion in the pig by means of a prolamine solution.

Prolamine is an alcoholic solution of zein, with the property of polymerizing within 15 minutes in a humid medium. Such a substance has been injected in the pancreatic duct of 10 pigs with a microsurgical technique, causing complete occlusion. The prolamine gel produces a progressive fibrosclerosis of the exocrine pancreatic parenchyma, sparing the endocrine portion. The resulting pancreatic atrophy avoids the occurrence of inflammatory complications that often hamper surgery on such gland. The 10 pigs under study showed post-operative normal values of blood glucose and insulin, and a decrease in serum alpha-amylase levels. Complications occurred in only one case, and the microscopic pattern was similar in all cases. Microsurgical approach and use of prolamine are considered effective both in pancreatic transplantation and in chronic pancreatitis.