Blood parameters in female Zandi lambs as affected by liver biopsy methodology

The aim of the present study was to investigate the normal blood parameters of Iranian fat-tailed sheep (Zandi) and their changes due to rapid liver biopsy technique with a tru-cut biopsy needle. In ten ewe lambs, blood samples were collected from jugular vein and biopsy needle was inserted through the dorsal one third of the 11th intercostal space, on the right hand side of the lambs and liver specimen was collected. Physical examinations were performed on alternate days during the experiment. Blood collection was done on both before (day 1) and after (day 17) the biopsy. All animals were slaughtered at day 17. Values were compared using paired t test. While biopsy did not make any significant changes in mean values of body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, PCV, WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte, eosinophil, monocyte, total serum protein, AST, ALT, and serum calcium (p > 0.05), it made a significant difference on the values of ALP (p < 0.001), serum inorganic phosphate (p = 0.035), and magnesium (p = 0.013). Necropsy examination revealed the points of hitting the biopsy needles on the diaphragmatic surface of the livers, surrounded by a zone of intense hyperemia. Peritoneal adhesions accompanying with typical strands of fibrous connective tissue between diaphragmatic surface of the liver and adjacent abdominal wall were found in two cases.