Successful Treatment of CCL4-Induced Acute Liver Failure With Portal Vein Arterialization in the Rat

Introduction: Optimization of the conditions for regeneration of the native diseased liver is a major goal in patients with acute liver failure. This study sought to determine whether portal vein arterialization (PVA), which increases the oxygen supply to the liver, was protective in a rat model of liver failure. Methods: At 24 hours after CCl4 intoxication, Sprague-Dawley rats (six per group) were assigned to receive PVA or as controls. We determined blood tests, histology, and 10-day survivals. Hepatocyte regeneration was assessed by the mitotic index and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation. Results: Serum transaminases were significantly lower in PVA-treated rats than in control animals: liver necrosis resolved rapidly after PVA. The BrdU staining and mitotic index were severalfold higher among PVA-treated than in untreated rats. Survival was 100% among rats with PVA and 40% in untreated animals (P < .01). Conclusions: PVA led to resolution of CCl4-induced massive liver necrosis in the rat. This effect was probably mediated by activation of rapid and extensive hepatocyte regeneration. PVA might provide a novel, alternative approach to treat acute liver failure.