Suicide in a consecutive series of 1,000 patients, who underwent Billroth II resection for duodenal ulcer, was estimated. After an observation period of 21-29 years, 13,7% of those who had died had committted suicide. Among this group alcoholism was dominant. Also present were non-psychotic conditions such as neurosis & psychopathy. 50% of the persons who commited suicide were alcoholics & alcohol abuse seemed to develop after surgery. Implications for postoperative followup are made.(DD)