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Plasma Catecholamine Levels after A b d o m i n a l Operations in ManSummary. In 13 patients (7 women, 6 men, average age 61 year), who underwent a major abdominal operation and whose postoperative course was uncomplicated, the plasma eatecholamines (noradrenaline and adrenaline) were measured one day before operation, 3 to 5 hours after operation as well as on the first and third postoperative day. The heart rate, central venous and arterial pressure, hemoglobin and body temperature were determined simultaneously.I. In the first postoperative phase total catecholamine mounts to nearly twice the initial value. However, it rises only slightly towards the first postoperative day. On the third postoperative day there is a decreasing tendency.2. Noradrenaline rises already three to five hours postoperatively to its highest mean level, while adrenaline reaches its highest mean level on the first postoperative day.3. Heart rate rises from an average 77/min to 94/rain at the first postoperative day. Central venous pressure decreases toward the first postoperative day by an average of I mmttg, in order to reach its initial value on the third day. Arterial pressure, hemoglobin and body temperature stay unchanged during the period of examination.4. There is a certain quantitative relation between the augmentation of total catecholamine and heart rate.These findings together with relevant literature are discussed and probable causes for raised sympathico-adrenergic activities in the early postoperative phase are demonstrated.