Oddi sphincter function after canine auto-pancreas transplantation with bladder drainage

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Research
• Transplantation Immunology

Background:

• The sphincter of Oddi (SO) regulates bile and pancreatic juice flow.
• Pancreas transplantation can denervate the graft SO, potentially impacting its function.
• Graft pancreatitis may be linked to altered SO motility post-transplantation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate sphincter of Oddi (SO) motility after canine pancreas transplantation with bladder drainage.
• To assess the effects of cholecystokinin (CCK) on graft SO motility.

Main Methods:

• Sphincter of Oddi (SO) manometry was performed in dogs before and after pancreas transplantation.
• SO motility was measured before and after cholecystokinin (CCK) administration.
• Data on basal pressure, contraction frequency, amplitude, and motility index were analyzed and compared.

Main Results:

• Post-transplantation, graft SO exhibited higher basal pressure and contraction frequency but reduced amplitude compared to controls.
• Cholecystokinin (CCK) stimulated graft SO motility, increasing basal pressure, frequency, and motility index.
• Unlike in normal dogs, CCK inhibited rather than relaxed the SO after pancreas transplantation.

Conclusions:

• Canine SO motility is inhibited after pancreas transplantation with bladder drainage.
• Altered SO motility and CCK response may increase resistance to pancreatic juice flow, leading to stagnation and potential graft pancreatitis.
• The findings suggest impaired SO function contributes to complications following pancreas transplantation.