Effect of jejunoileal bypass operation and Billroth II resection on postprandial plasma pancreatic polypeptide release.

In five jejunoileal bypass-opeated subjects mean plasma pancreatic polypeptide (PP) values were significantly higher 15, 30, and 60 min. after start of a meal 2 weeks postoperatively, and 15 min. after start of a meal 6 weeks postoperatively, as compared with preoperative values. In a group of eight obese subjects, operated on with jejunoileal bypass 2-5 years ago, the postprandial plasma PP release tended to be higher than in an age-matched control group, the difference, however, being significant at 15 min. only. On the other hand, the postprandial plasma PP release in a group of six Billroth-II-resected patients was almost identical to that seen in an age-matched control group. It appears as though neither the antrum nor the small intestine is a prerequisite for a normal PP response to a mixed liquid test meal.