Percutaneous ultrasound-guided trans-splenic catheterization of the portalvein in the dog

The purpose of this investigation was to develop a safe and reliable techni que for percutaneous catheterization of the portal vein via a major splenic vein using ultrasound guidance. Three separate catheter systems were evalu ated on five anesthetized dogs. At least five attempts at catheterization o f the splenic vein and subsequently the portal vein were attempted on each animal. Following the procedure the dogs were necropsied to assess for intr asplenic and intraabdominal hemorrhage. A technique using an introducer sys tem and a large catheter was not successful on seven attempts. A technique using an over the needle catheter was successful in gaining access to the s plenic vein on two out of five attempts; however the catheter could not be advanced into the portal vein. A technique utilizing 19 or 17 gauge needles with 22 or 19 catheter through-the-needle-catheters was successful in cath eterization of the splenic vein and advancement to the portal vein on twelv e of fifteen attempts. The smaller gauge needle and catheter system provide d for easier access to the splenic vein and subsequent catheter manipulatio n facilitating access to the portal circulation.