A modification of the canine carotid-jugular shunt.

A shunt modification was used for implantation in the carotid-jugular vessels of the dog. The shunt was made of plastic tubing and was tied to each vessel with three silk ligatures. The tubing was exteriorized and anchored to the skin. The exposed tubing was cut and attached to the input and output lines of a tubing kit for leukapheresis with a continuous flow centrifuge. Surgical implantation of the shunt was accomplished with ease and minimum trauma to the animal. Useful life of the shunt extended over a 3-week period with minimal requirements for anticoagulants.