Description of a new model of intestinal denervation and in situ ischemia-reperfusion injury using the cecal artery for perfusion.

BACKGROUND: The main purpose of the present investigation was to describe a model of intestinal denervation and in situ intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury in adult rats, with utilization of the distal branch of the superior mesenteric artery close to the cecum for perfusion. METHODS: In the root of the mesentery, the mesenteric artery and vein were completely isolated. Close to the cecal valve, a lymphatic node served as the reference point for the localization of the cecal artery, which was cannulated for perfusion with cold lactated Ringer's solution. One hundred adult male rats were utilized in the study. RESULTS: In a pilot study, we demonstrated that the cold ischemia time was sufficient to promote histopathologic intestinal changes characteristic of ischemia-reperfusion injury. Among 88 operated animals, 62 (70.5%) survived the procedure. CONCLUSION: The experimental model described herein has the advantage of preserving the entire intestine, which makes it more suitable for studies of physiological and morphological alterations after intestinal transplantation.