A canine model for IVC occlusive form of Budd-Chiari syndrome using endovascular technique

The objective of this study was to assess the portal/hepatic changes in a newly designed canine model for Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). The inferior vena cava (IVC) was occluded using a diagram stent under general anesthesia in 10 mongrel dogs under the guidance of percutaneous angiography. Five dogs that received IVC angiography only were used as sham controls. Occlusion of the IVC increased the diameter of the hepatic veins, portal vein, and IVC. Massive ascites, significantly increased abdominal circumference, varying degrees of esophageal varices, congestion, cirrhosis, and fibrosis of the liver were also noted. BCS could be readily established by placing a diaphragm-stent in the IVC via a percutaneous endovascular approach.