A multiple catheter technique for studies of hepatic metabolism and blood flow in dogs with portacaval transposition.

Abstract

A technique is described for in vivo hepatic metabolic studies, employing a multiple catheterization technique in dogs with chronic portacaval transposition. The animals are studied in the unanesthetized state immediately after the insertion of catheters through peripheral cut-downs. The gradient of metabolites entering and leaving the liver can be measured concomitantly with hepatic plasma flow. Additional simultaneous gradients can be obtained across the splanchnic capillary bed, or the hindquarters. Drugs can be introduced into the circulation by a systemic route or by primary injection into the hepatic circulation. The advantages of this approach compared to other methods of evaluating moment to moment hepatic function are discussed. © 1962.