Microsurgery in liver research: End-to-side portocaval microanastomoses in dogfish

Summary Background The use of an operating microscope in animal liver surgery has made it possible to obtain new experimental models. The goal of this prospective animal study is to present our experience with dogfish portocaval microanastomoses. Methods Nineteen portocaval microanastomoses were performed in dogfish. The end-to-side anastomoses were accomplished using continuous 11-0 sutures. The diameter of the vessels and time required for the anastomoses were measured. A patency test and its outcome were also prospectively evaluated at the time of anastomoses and then 3 and 6 months after. Results The mean vessel diameter was 2.5 ± 0.2 mm. The mean anastomosis time was 14 ± 1.5 min. The anastomoses patency rate was 100% at the time of surgery. A postoperative control performed after 3 and 6 months showed a partial stenosis in three animals. Conclusion The dogfish appears to be a reliable experimental model in liver research. Moreover, this technique could be used for microsurgical training.