Constriction of Thoracic Inferior Vena Cava in Rabbits Following Two-Stage Portal Ligation.

Abstract

8 rabbits were subjected to thoracic inferior vena cava constriction with formation of ascites in all. Plasma proteins in fluid averaged 4.0 g. 8 rabbits were subjected to 2-stage portal vein ligation. No ascites was demonstrated: 1 week later these same animals were subjected to thoracic inferior vena caval constriction with formation of ascites in all. Plasma proteins averaged 3.9 g./100 cc. In rabbits, the ascitic fluid formed by caval constriction in the chest is not affected by previous 2-stage portal ligation.