[A loop technique for permanent exteriorization of bile flow in rats (author's transl)]

Abstract

A technique of chronic deviation of the bile flow without affecting either hepatic or pancreatic function is described in the rat. Two silastic tubes are inserted into the bile duct via a single incision, one directed towards the liver and the other towards the duodenum. Using a trocar, the two tubes are brought forward subcutaneously, exteriorized over the frontal region and connected by a polythene U-tube. They are encased in a plastic cylinder firmly fixed to the skull with dental cement, and fitted with a cap. This permits repeated sampling and simultaneous measurement of flow and pressure of bile in unrestrained animals for a least one month. The entero-hepatic bile salt cycle and the animal's weight are unmodified by this procedure.