A method for perfusion of the isolated rabbit liver through the portal vein and the hepatic artery in a recirculating system.

We describe a method for the isolation and recirculating perfusion of rabbit livers. Livers were perfused simultaneously through the portal vein and the hepatic artery. Precise descriptions of the surgical preparation, perfusion apparatus and perfusion method are given. The viability of rabbit livers was assessed with the use of physiological, biochemical and histological parameters. We conclude that the isolated perfused rabbit livers are sufficiently viable to study their short-term metabolism.