Changes in hepatic bile secretion following cholecystectomy.

The volume and compositon of hepatic bile was studied in anesthetized dogs before and approximately 18 weeks after cholecystectomy. Dogs had common duct cannulation, cystic duct ligation, and temporary occlusion of the pylorus. An intravenous infusion of sodium taurocholate, 9 muEq per minute, was given throughout the experiment. Bile volume, electrolyte composition, bile salt output, and 14C-mannitol clearance were determined during infusion of sodium taurocholate alone and after addition of secretin, 4 U. per kilogram per hour, to the infusion. Cholecystectomy then was done and the same experiment was repeated 18 weeks later. Cholecystectomy significantly increased bile volume, sodium and chloride output, and 14C-mannitol clearance both in response to taurocholate alone and to taurocholate plus secretin. Bile salt output and bicarbonate output were unchanged. The study shows that cholecystectomy significantly alters the volume and composition of hepatic bile. The data indicate that cholecystectomy does not affect ductular function or hepatic secretion of bile salts but that canalicular function is altered significantly.