[Technique and function of an experimental multiorgan transplant model in pigs].

En bloc transplantation of the liver, duodenum and pancreas has been successful in humans for the treatment of tumors requiring exenteration of the upper abdomen. We have developed an experimental model in 40 pigs of en bloc transplantation of the liver, duodenum and pancreas. The surgical technique for organ harvesting and preservation has been correct as the early graft function was excellent. We describe in detail the surgical technique in the recipient animal, the anesthetic model and the autopsy findings. Liver function was excellent and endocrine pancreatic function was normal within 8 hours after transplantation. Absorption and insulin-secreting response was normal in a few animals studied with an oral glucose overdose and with the intravenous glucagon test.