Duodenum sparing technique for preventive stenting of biliary tract anastomosis in pigs

Aim The main aim of this study was to find out standardized method for preventive stenting of biliary tract anastomosis with biodegradable self-expandable stent from polydioxanone and evaluate function of the stent. Materials and methods This experimental study was performed in four pigs with follow up of eight weeks. Procedure was done under general anesthesia. The function of the stent was verified by by clinical stage, blood test, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and necropsy. Results Our duodenum sparing technique was described in detail and photographically documented. All pigs finished follow up without clinical, laboratory or radiologic signs of biliary obstruction. Necropsy did not reveal complication of the procedure or anastomotic stricture. Conclusions In conclusion this study demonstrated simple new duodenum sparing method of transanastomotic insertion of biodegradable self-expandable stent from polydioxanone. We did not find any complication during follow up. This method will be used in our follow up study with extended experimental a control group of animals and longer follow up to verify the preventive function of this stent.