Enteral perfusion in the pig

Techniques for the insertion of catheters in the colon of piglets following simple laparotomy were developed to facilitate an in vivo study of colonic absorption. Catheters were tunneled subcutaneously to a dorsal parascapular position from which the colon could be intermittently (or continuously) perfused with test solutions without physical or chemical restraint. Because of the pig's unique body habitus, the catheter is not likely to be removed by the animal. We have demonstrated in four pigs that they can be maintained free of systemic sepsis for up to 2 weeks, allowing for regular intermittent administration of fluids.