The Morphology and Topography of Portal Vein Root and Tributaries in Pig

The study of the circulatory system in pigs is of major concern for anatomists, as the swine model is widely used in experimental cardio-vascular surgery. Although the vascularization of the cavities it is not a totally unknown „territory”, we noticed that any morphological study on the vasculature of the abdominal cavity and especially of the liver, offered new elements, appreciated by those who focus on the therapy of cardio-vascular diseases. The study was conducted within the Anatomy Laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Bucharest. The research was conducted on approximately one-month old piglets, using the method of injecting the vessels with a contrast substance. This substance named Latex FDS195, has been used for the first time in our lab, and has been considered very efficient. As a result of the study, individual variants which have not been mentioned in specialized literature were described: the jejunal veins form structures in the shape of networks of fine vessels where the venous formations intertwine with the arterial ones. These aspects have not been described in detail in other scientific works. Recommendations of practical importance were also specified (the role of the networks on the jejunal artery route and the importance of knowing the topography of the caudal mesenteric artery for intrarectal administration of substances). Our results show that detailed knowledge of normal anatomy is crucial to avoid complications and ensure the success of liver surgery. Thus, we recommend that surgeons pay special attention to this aspect and be prepared to manage the variations of the hepatic pedicle properly. It is important that this knowledge is integrated into surgical training and practice to ensure the safety and success of interventions in the liver area