Evaluation of transplanted hepatocytes using HIDA scintigraphy.

BACKGROUND: Hepatocyte transplantation has generated interest because of potential clinical application in enzyme deficiency disorders and acute hepatic failure. Ex-vivo HIDA scintigraphy has been used to assess graft survival after hepatocyte transplantation. The present study evaluates in-vivo99mTc-HIDA scintigraphy to assess graft function after hepatocyte transplantation. METHODS: Rat hepatocytes were isolated by a modified collagenase digestion technique and injected intrasplenically into 6 syngenic rats; 4 control rats received intrasplenic saline injections. In-vivo HIDA scintigraphy and histological evaluation were done 90 days after transplantation. RESULTS: Five of the six rats in the study group showed prompt and progressive accumulation of HIDA in the spleen. Histological examination showed presence of hepatocytes in the splenic red pulp. None of the control group animals had splenic uptake of HIDA. CONCLUSION: HIDA scintigraphy may be a useful modality for assessment of graft function after intrasplenic hepatocyte transplantation.