Changes in the electrical activity of the stomach after partial resection of the pancreas and occlusion of the pancreatic duct.

The electrical activity of the stomach and duodenum of six mongrel dogs was studied under chronic conditions after partial resection of the pancreas and occlusion of the pancreatic duct. Changes in the electrical activity were observed only in the stomach, manifested in the form of groups of slow potentials with accelerated rhythm (over 7 cpm--tachygastria) or delayed rhythm (below 3 cpm--bradygastria). A definite dynamics was observed in the appearance and development of rhythmic disorganization. The duration of the groups of slow potentials with abnormal rhythm increased 10-12 days after surgery. Radioimmunological studies showed a postoperative increase in the glucagon level, paralleled by a decrease in the content of the C-peptide and insulin in the blood plasma. Influsion with insulin (0.5 IU i.v.) regulates the disorganized antral rhythm. The dysbalance in the insulin/glucagon ratio in the blood serum is assumed to be the probable mechanism of the rhythmic disturbances.