Timing of surgery for acute biliary pancreatitis.

Twenty-five patients with acute biliary pancreatitis were classified according to the severity of disease as determined by Ranson's signs. A significant correlation was found between the severity of pancreatitis estimated in this way and the observed postoperative mortality. Early operation was performed in 15 patients, whereas 10 patients received conservative management for a certain period before operation. The choice of treatment was based on clinical considerations. No significant difference was found in mortality between the two groups. We conclude that early operation does not harm patients with mild pancreatitis whereas patients with severe pancreatitis may benefit from it.