End-to-Side Portacaval Shunt: A Simplified Technique

Abstract

A simplified technique of end-to-side portacaval shunt in the rat is described, consisting in using a microsuture with a looped end. By using this technique, combined with two-step portal vein venotomy, the portal vein and caval vein can be brought closer together in a single movement, with no need for a knot at the start of the shunt. As a result, this modified technique makes it easier and reduces the time required to perform the shunt, without any rise in associated mortality.

Keywords:

• end-to-side
• portacaval shunt
• rat