Diversion of the gastroduodenal vein: an in situ model of systemic insulin drainage

A technique of diversion of the gastroduodenal vein in a canine model is described to compare long-term metabolic effects of systemic versus portal pancreatic endocrine drainage. The vein was transected at its entrance into the portal vein and either diverted to the inferior vena cava (systemic group) or reanastomosed to the portal vein (portal group). All remaining venous drainage of the pancreas was interrupted. An additional group of animals underwent laparotomy without manipulation of pancreatic vasculature (sham group). Fasting peripheral insulin and glucose values were determined 3 months postoperatively. Fasting insulin values were significantly higher in the systemic group (mean 10.7 ± 1.06 U/ml) than in the portal (5.8 ± 0.70, P = 0.002) and sham (6.4 ± 0.68, P = 0.01) groups. Fasting glucose values were not significantly different in the three groups. At sacrifice, venous thrombosis was noted in one systemically diverted dog (6.7%). All other anastomoses were patent. No significant collateralization was apparent in any group. No significant complications were noted. This procedure simulates the hormonal milieu created by heterotopic pancreatic transplantation while preserving pancreatic innervation and exocrine function, and serves as an excellent model for investigating the effects of systemic hyperinsulinemia on protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism.