A new and simple technique of total hepatic ischemia in the mouse

Background. A model of total hepatic ischemia is curently not available in mice. Models described in rats using portosystematic shunts to achieve total ischemia have been notoriously difficult. In mice, the problem is compounded further when using this type of technique is described combining partial hepatectomy which clamping of the remnant liver. Methods: A partial (30%) hepatectomy is performed with resection of the caudate, right lateral, and quadrate lobes, and papillary process. Vascular microclamps are placed across the pedicles of the median and left lateral lobe at the level of hilum to achieve total ischemia. Spontaneous portocaval shunts through caudate branches and collateral vessels prevent mesentric congestion. Animals were studied for survival. Results. The procedure consistently took less than 30 min (25±2 min), and no bleeding of the resected tissue was observed. Evidence for total hepatic ischemia and spontaneous shunts was demonstrated by the use of an intraportal dye. All animals survived 60 min of ischemia, whereas all died after 90 min of ischemia. Conclusion: This is a technically simple and rapid procedure to perform. In the current environment of multiple knockout mice and bioreagents that are available, a model of this type is essential.