Activity of the bile duct

ABSTRACT

It is not yet known whether the bilar tree has any function other than conduction of fluid from the canaliculi to the hilum of the liver. In various animals the common bile duct was cannulated and obstructed under anaesthesia. The cystic duct was litigated. After 30 to 60 minutes an injection of various dyes was given intravenously and after a varying period the bile duct was released. Bile was collected in small samples and analysed. Dye was present in high concentration in all the samples collected. Therefore, unless there was always rupture of the duct near the cannula the bile duct is able either to extract dye or to reabsorb water. In some experiments a second injection of radioactive dye was given and from the results are due to a rupture of the duct (AU)