Simple and sure methodology for massive hepatectomy in the mouse

BACKGROUND: Reliable models for massive hepatectomy in the mouse are required for experimental liver research. METHODS: We analyzed anatomical findings in 100 mice following massive hepatectomy induced by liver reduction >70%. The impact of various factors in the different models was also analyzed, including learning curves, operative time, survival curves and histopathological findings. RESULTS: According to anatomical results, murine models with 75%, 80% and 90% of liver resection produced massive hepatectomy. Learning curves and operative times were most optimal with the clip technique. Each hepatectomy performed using the clip technique produced a reasonable survival curve, and there were no differences in histopathological findings between the suture and clip techniques. CONCLUSION: Massive hepatectomy by the clip technique is simple and can provide reliable and relevant data.