Structural and functional effects of porta-caval shunt below the superior pancreatico-duodenal [SPD] vein on normal canine liver

ABSTRACT

The structure and function of the normal canine liver are still intact after its deprivation from both mesenteric and splenic venous blood by end to side porta-caval shunt below SPD vein. Consequently the hepatic damage caused by total porta-caval shunt is mainly due to deprivation of the liver from the pancreatico-duodenal hormones, contained in the SPD vein. The study indicates that porta-caval shunt constructed below SPD vein allows the pancreatic hormones to perfuse the liver and prevents the serious consequences of total porta-caval shunt. The clinical importance of such a shunt is obvious as it may turn to be the ideal shunt for the surgical treatment of portal hypertension in the future