Modifications of the portacaval shunt in the rat

Two refinements of the end-to-side portacaval anastomosis in the rat, the superior mesenteric-caval and the splenocaval, have been presented along with a continuous-suture method which makes possible a more rapid surgical procedure. Rats have been maintained with these shunts for 6 months after which autopsies have shown the shunts to be patent. The superior mesentericcaval anastomosis offers a unique system for examining the influence of dietary products on the liver. The diversion of insulin in the splenocaval anastomosis may provide a liver condition more nearly like that of the diabetic patient than those experimental systems previously used. Both shunts are being utilized in this laboratory for further study of liver systems. liver function; suture methods Submitted on January 27, 1965