Tissue-engineering repair of extrahepatic bile ducts
Alejandro José Pérez Alonso1, Carlos Del Olmo Rivas, Ignacio Machado Romero
1Department of Experimental Surgery, University of Granada, Granada, Spain. apma85@hotmail.com
Background:
In recent years, with the widespread use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and liver transplantation, complications involving the biliary system are increasing. All techniques available have a high risk of recurrence or high-morbidity problems. We developed a three-dimensional collagen duct modified with agarose hydrogel, to substitute the affected extrahepatic bile duct.
Materials And Methods:
We used it in 40 guinea pigs and studied the histology and physiology at 4 wk, 3, and 6 mo after transplantation. Blood test, histologic techniques, and cholangiography were performed in all of them.
Results:
All experimental animals survived up to their sacrifices. Our graft showed highly potential applications to treat hepatobiliary diseases that require surgery.
