[Acute pancreatitis].

The acute pancreatitis, especially the more severe cases with tissue necrosis, requires a high degree of intensive care monitoring and treatment. For the determination of the most suitable moment for surgical intervention, close cooperation between internist and surgeon is inevitable. The initial therapy is principally conservative; in especially severe cases and in cases of biliary pancreatitis, an early operation may be necessary, whereas in most cases of grade II pancreatitis, delayed surgery will be performed. Prerequisite for the success of any operation is optimal pre- and postoperative medical treatment.