Generating Rabbit Liver Carcinoma Model: A Surgical Procedure to Implant Tumor

Tissue in Left Lobe of Liver for Induction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Transcript
First, prep an anesthetized rabbit in the supine position. Sterilize its abdomen and make a midline
skin incision to expose the linea alba - a thin white band of collagenous tissue connecting the
abdominal muscles. Next, dissect the linea alba and cut through the peritoneum - the serous
membrane that lines the abdominal cavity - to access the intraperitoneal organs.

Locate the red-brown liver in the upper central abdominal region. The rabbit liver comprises the
right, left lateral, left medial, quadrate, and caudate lobes. Identify the left lateral lobe, lying
infero-lateral to the left medial lobe. Now, draw out the left lateral lobe and place it onto a dry
gauze to prevent retraction into the abdominal cavity. Cover the organ with a wet gauze to keep
it hydrated.

Meanwhile, process the tumor tissue of interest - obtained from a tumor-bearing donor - to
acquire appropriately sized fragments. Using a blade, puncture the exteriorized liver capsule deep
enough to create a small pocket for tumor fragment implantation.

Transfer the processed tumor fragment inside the pocket and remove the blade. Apply a
hemostatic agent over the pocket to stop bleeding and prevent ejection of the tumor fragment.
Post-hemostasis, return the liver inside the abdominal cavity. Suture the surgical incision and
allow the rabbit to recover. Monitor the animal weekly, observing the growth of hepatic tumor.