Publisher's Synopsis
Both somatostatin and octreotide are potent inhibitors of exocrine pancreatic secretion as well as inhibitors of most gastrointestinal hormones. Since the discovery of somatostatin in 1972, substantial progress in its clinical application has led to its widespread usage in the prevention of postoperative complications in major pancreatic surgery and as treatment for gastroenteropancreatic endocrine tumors (GEP) and pancreatic fistulas. This publication provides a particularly valuable overview of current knowledge on somatostatin and octreotide in that it also explores controversial topics. It is hoped that this publication will serve to stimulate further research and will lead to further well-designed clinical trails to resolve the issues still under discussion.
