Effects of partial portal vein arterialization on liver regeneration after hepatectomy in minipigs with obstructive jaundice

Background  Hilar cholangiocarcinoma is a malignant tumor that is difficult to cure. BACKGROUNDThe aim of this study was to observe the effects of flow-controlled partial portal vein arterializations (PPVA) on liver regeneration after hepatectomy in minipigs with chronic obstructive jaundice.

Methods  Eight minipigs were made into chronic obstructive jaundice models. United semi-hepatectomy, which imitates extended radical surgery for treatment of hilar cholangiocarcinoma, was then performed. The eight minipigs were randomly divided into groups A and B (n=4 minipigs each). PPVA was performed in Group A but not in Group B. The effects of flow-controlled PPVA on live regeneration after hepatectomy were observed for 30 days after hepatectomy.

Results  The portal vein PO₂ at the immediate time point and on postoperative day 30 was higher in Group A ((47.33±2.43) and (48.50±4.44) mmHg) than in Group B ((35.38±4.06) and (35.55±2.55) mmHg respectively, all P <0.01). The mitotic index of liver cells on postoperative days 14 and 21 was higher in Group A (12.55%±2.85% and 15.25%±1.99% respectively) than in Group B (6.85%±2.10% and 11.88%±1.15% respectively, all P <0.05). The regeneration rate of residual liver on postoperative days 14 and 21 was higher in Group A (24.56%±6.15% and 70.63%±9.83% respectively) than in Group B (11.96%±5.43% and 44.92%±7.42% respectively, P <0.05 and P <0.01 respectively).

Conclusion  Flow-controlled PPVA can promote liver regeneration after hepatectomy and prevent liver failure in minipigs with chronic obstructive jaundice.