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In the rat model of heterotopic auxiliary liver transplantation, graft re-arterialization may influence the outcome of inter-liver competition. This was investigated in the current study using two transplanted groups with or without graft re-arterialization. Immediately after reperfusion, the re-arterialized grafts showed significantly higher bile flow rate and bilirubin excretion than the grafts without re-arterialization. DNA synthesis rate was also increased more drastically in the re-arterialized group following the transplantation. Without re-arterialization, the rats developed more pronounced cytolysis and cholestasis. Among the long-term survivors, all healthy re-arterialized grafts regenerated, whereas 5/6 non-re-arterialized grafts atrophied. These data demonstrate that the re-arterialization increases graft survival by improving early hepatic function, enhancing regenerative response and preventing post-transplant biliary complications in this rat model.Copyright © 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although arterialisation of the portal vein has long been used in various surgical situations including treating patients with liver cirrhosis, hepatobiliary malignancy, and more recently in liver transplantation, the venous nature of the portal supply is considered essential to preserve hepatic integrity. Ninety-six Lewis rats were randomly assigned to four groups of twenty-four rats each. A standard 68% partial hepatectomy was performed in the rats of all groups to induce liver groups of twenty-four rats each. A standard 68% partial hepatectomy was performed in the rats of all groups to induce liver regeneration. Group 1 served as the control.