Histology and bacteriology of closed duodenal loop models of experimental acute pancreatitis in the rat.

Three variants of closed duodenal loop models of experimental acute pancreatitis in the rat have been analysed histologically and bacteriologically. Histological studies showed that the resulting pancreatitis was usually mild to moderate, being severe only in association with sepsis. Furthermore the duodenal wall became necrotic in most animals. Bacteriological studies revealed gross infection as a major complication. Peritoneal fluid and blood cultures taken at the time of animal sacrifice consistently demonstrated large numbers of bacteria. It is concluded that although these models undoubtedly cause acute pancreatitis, other more severe pathological events occur. Deductions regarding acute pancreatitis drawn from this type of model are therefore not relevant to the human disease.