Biliary manometry in swine: a unique endoscopic model for teaching and research

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Innovation
• Animal Models

Background:

• Biliary manometry is the gold standard for diagnosing sphincter of Oddi dysfunction.
• Technical and methodological challenges exist with current biliary manometry procedures.
• A lack of suitable experimental models has impeded progress in addressing these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the first practical animal model for endoscopic biliary manometry.
• To create a model that mimics human endoscopic biliary manometry techniques.
• To facilitate research into sphincter of Oddi physiology and pharmacology.

Main Methods:

• Sedated piglets underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography using a human duodenoscope.
• A water-perfused manometry catheter was advanced into the bile duct.
• Sphincter of Oddi activity was recorded and responses to cholecystokinin and morphine were assessed.

Main Results:

• The model successfully identified the sphincter of Oddi by its characteristic high-pressure zone and phasic contractions.
• The sphincter demonstrated normal physiological responses, relaxing to cholecystokinin and contracting to morphine.
• The procedure was relatively atraumatic in the piglet model.

Conclusions:

• This piglet model represents a significant advancement for endoscopic biliary manometry.
• The model is suitable for training, technical innovation, and studying sphincter of Oddi physiology.
• It offers a less invasive alternative to existing surgical models for research purposes.