BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of portocaval shunt on liver function in dogs. METHODS: Twenty animals were divided into two groups: Group I was submitted to 28.7% partial hepatectomy and Group II underwent partial hepatectomy associated with portocaval shunt. Data analyzed were the amount of anesthetic used during the surgical procedure, pre and post-operative (15 and 30 days later) ammonia levels, AST, total bilirubins and fractions, total proteins, albumin and the bromsulphalein tolerance test, all measured preoperatively and 30 days after surgery. RESULTS: The anesthetic levels used were statistically lower in Group I. In Group II, only AST levels were higher post-operatively than preoperatively. On the other hand, Group II post-operative data were statistically higher when compared to preoperative and Group I values, except for total proteins and albumin levels, which were statistically lower. CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that portocaval shunt induces liver dysfunction, which has been disclosed by high ammonia levels and changes in liver function tests.
Portacaval shunt; surgical; Hepatectomy; Liver; Models, animal
