[Plasma catecholamines, insulin and glucose in the postoperative phase. Cause and duration of the post-stress syndrome after abdominal surgery].

Plasma catecholamine, insulin secretion, and serum glucose levels were measured to determine the extent and duration of the postaggression syndrome following major abdominal surgery: 1. There was a significant increase in plasma catecholamine levels (epinephrine and norepinephrine) during the first postoperative week. -2. Glucose dependent insulin secretion remained elevated for more than 6 days following major abdominal surgery. -3. Postoperative glucose assimilation was reduced for more than 1 week. -4. There is a negative correlation between plasma catecholamine levels and reduced insulin secretion following the administration of glucose in the postoperative phase. -5. Inhibition of insulin secretion should be included in the therapeutic considerations for the first postoperative week in all patients undergoing major abdominal surgery.