PORTACAVAL-SHUNT CONTROL ANIMALS - PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES DERIVEDFROM THE SHAM OPERATION

The portacaval shunt in the rat is a frequently used experimental mode l of portosystemic encephalopathy. Among other consequences of this su rgical preparation is an important decrease in hepatic and testicular volume. Different sham-operation methods including a laparotomy were u sed as controls in each case. Given that the liver volume varies great ly in comparison to body weight in the sham-operated animals, this pap er aims to evaluate the possible consequences of the sham operation. I t concludes that control animals without manipulation, in addition to the respective controls of portacaval shunt, should be used in every c ase.