Microangiography of the pancreas in experimental hemorrhagic pancreatitis

In experimental hemorrhagic pancreatitis induced with sodium-taurocholate-trypsin, contrast enhancement of the pancreas in computed tomography (CT) has been shown to be decreased in spite of normal pancreatic blood flow. The contrast enhancement in CT depends on blood flow to the organ, capillary permeability and the amount of extracellular fluid in the organ. For further evaluation of the role of microcirculatory changes in our model of hemorrhagic pancreatitis, microangiography was performed in five normal piglets and in ten piglets with acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis. In this experimental model histological studies showed focal necroses, hemorrhages and leucocyte accumulation. In the affected areas microangiography revealed unfilled capillaries and extravasation of contrast medium. Arteries and arterioles were well filled, as in the normal control animals. These severe disturbances in the capillary circulation of the pancreas may explain the decreased contrast enhancement of the pancreas in CT during acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis.