An experimental study on the changes in the pancreatic exocrine functions before and after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for the treatment of periampullary carcinoma was performed. Pancreatic insufficiency models with pancreatic duct stenosis was prepared with dogs by giving them complete ligation of the minor pancreatic duct and intubation into the major pancreatic duct. After 3 months of pancreatic duct stenosis, intubation placed into the major pancreatic duct was withdrawn to drain the pancreatic juice. At the same time, approximately 50% pancreatectomy, with approximately 50 cm duodenojejunectomy, was performed to prepare a PD model. The results of the N-benzoyl-L-tyrosyl-p-aminobenzoic acid test (BTPABA test) showed reduction in what during stenosis of the pancreatic duct. Although the results of the BTPABA test shortly after reoperation showed reduction, a gradual recovery was noted, returning in 4-5 months to almost the same level as before the operation. The findings of the present study indicate that pancreatic exocrine insufficiency in periampullary carcinoma is due to pancreatic duct obstruction, and that the post-PD pancreatic exocrine function can be successfully maintained at the level close to that in normal sujects if drainage of the pancreatic duct functions effectively.