A model of cholestasis in the rat, using a microsurgical technique.

An experimental model of extrahepatic cholestasis in the rat, using a microsurgical technique, is described. Sixteen days postoperatively all of the animals (n = 10) were alive and had hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, jaundice, and hyperbilirubinemia. The use of this technique prevents the development of hepatic cysts and other complications inherent in the surgical techniques of cholestasis, such as hepatopneumonic abscesses.