In situ freezing of the pancreas and portal vein in the pig.

The pathophysiological results of a study of simultaneously freezing the pancreas and portal vein in the pig are presented. There was little reduction in portal venous flow despite the vein being frozen, and there were no cases of occlusion, rupture, or dilatation of the vein. Major histological changes in the vein wall were noted however. The frozen pancreatic tissue was completely destroyed and replaced by granulation tissue. The possible use of this form of therapy to treat pancreatic cancer is discussed.