Double-balloon catheter for isolated liver perfusion: an experimental study

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Surgical Innovation
• Hepatic Physiology

Background:

• Isolated Liver Perfusion (ILP) is an interventional technique requiring effective organ isolation.
• Previous ILP methods have limitations in achieving complete hepatic isolation.
• Development of advanced catheter systems is crucial for improving ILP efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To further develop and evaluate a novel double-lumen balloon catheter for isolated liver perfusion (ILP).
• To assess the safety and efficacy of this new catheter system in achieving liver isolation.
• To quantify the side effects associated with this improved ILP method.

Main Methods:

• A new double-balloon catheter was employed for ILP in a porcine model.
• Transjugular and transfemoral approaches were used to position catheters in the portal vein, inferior vena cava, and hepatic artery.
• Liver isolation was assessed by measuring peripheral blood radioactivity and monitoring liver/pancreas function tests.

Main Results:

• One pig was excluded due to a technical failure during the procedure.
• Minor leakage (mean 9.7%) from the isolated liver to the systemic circulation was observed over 30 minutes.
• Post-procedure laboratory tests showed only transient acidosis and a slight elevation in s-ALAT levels.

Conclusions:

• The novel double-balloon catheter facilitates ILP with minimal leakage to the systemic circulation.
• The developed ILP technique demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no significant adverse events.
• This advancement in catheter technology shows promise for future ILP applications.