T-tube drainage stimulates the healing of choledocho-choledochostomies. An experimental study in pigs.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: We investigated the effect of T-tube drainage on the healing of choledocho-choledochostomies in pigs.

METHODS

Twenty pigs with a median weight of 56 kg were used for the experiments. The pigs were randomized to two groups of ten. In all pigs the gallbladder was removed and the common bile duct was transected. In both groups continuity was re-established by standardized single-line, interrupted, and inverted sutures. In one group a T-tube for decompression was inserted. On postoperative day 6, a laparotomy was performed. Pigs were investigated for signs of cholascos, and an intraoperative cholangiography was performed. The excised anastomosis was examined for breaking strength and collagen content. Blood samples were drawn prior to the first and the final operations.

RESULTS

In both groups standard liver parameters were unaffected by surgery, and cholangiography showed no signs of extrahepatic stenosis or intrahepatic dilatation. The T-tube-drained choledocho-choledochostomies showed a significantly higher breaking strength (P = 0.035) compared to the group which had no drainage. Collagen content per volume was unaffected by T-tube drainage.

CONCLUSIONS

T-tube drainage had a significant stimulatory effect on the breaking strength of choledocho-choledochostomies in pigs on postoperative day 6, but was without effect on collagen content.