The effects of experimental division of the vascular pedicle of a transposed subcutaneous ileal loop

The effects of immediate division of the neurovascular pedicles of ileal loops implanted in the subcutaneous tissues for four weeks were studied in eight mongrel dogs. The structural and functional changes were studied by examining sections under light and electron microscopy and by comparing D-xylose absorption and motility patterns. Arteriograms were done to show the new subcutaneous collaterals supplying the loops. Of the eight dogs, four had loops showing normal histological appearances and D-xylose absorptive functions after division of the pedicles. In the remaining four dogs, the loops showed evidence of pseudomembranous changes in some areas, resulting in patching necrosis possibly due to inadequate collaterals. The absorption of D-xylose was impaired in these dogs. Perhaps a longer period of transposition and a gradual division of the vascular pedicle would improve the results. The motility pattern did not change after division of the pedicle, though the response to intravenous carbachol was significantly delayed.