A modified version of Herrera's method for creating a pancreatic fistula in dogs

Various cannulae have been devised to serve in experiments for collecting pancreatic juice. In this study we created a pancreatic fistula in dogs through a modification of Herrera's method. Since it is advisable to make as small a duodenal pouch as possible to collect almost all the secreted pancreatic juice, both ends of the pouch were closed by an inverted continuous all-layer suture. The lateral flange of the cannula was then introduced into the pouch to sample the pancreatic juice. Duodenoduodenostomy was performed to restore continuity of the alimentary tract, and the other end was inserted into the duodenum 3 cm distal to the anastomosis on the anal side. The exocrine pancreatic secretion of these dogs responded well to food ingestion, with a peak level of 14.5 +/- 5.4 ml/15 min appearing after 30 to 45 min in a postprandial state. Moreover, the animals were able to survive and be utilized for experiments for a period of 3 to 5 months. This experimental model is therefore considered to be of great value for the investigation of exocrine pancreatic secretion.