Percutaneous ultrasound-guided over-the wire catheterization of the portal and hepatic vessels in cattle

A new method for catheterization of the portal and hepatic veins in cattle by means of the over-the-wire system was investigated to maintain more reliable long-term patency of catheters. Four cattle were used to evaluate the success rate, patency and safety of the procedure. The catheters, coated by urokinase were patent as long as they were in situ. In addition, the introducer was useful to prevent the catheter from being broken. No complications developed during the10 days after the procedure. Two cows were then euthanized. Post mortem findings were minimal. The results of the study reported here are promising, the benefits are significant and there is no apparent disadvantage to its use.