A novel micromagnetic ring used for biliary-enteric anastomosis in rats

Background: To explore the feasibility of micromagnetic ring in establishing biliary-enteric anastomosis in a rat model. Methods: A new micromagnetic ring suitable for rat biliary-enteric anastomosis model was designed and fabricated. The common bile ducts of 20 Sprague-Dawley albino rats were ligated and dilated after 2 weeks. Surgery for biliary-enteric anastomosis was completed by using micromagnetic ring. The anastomosis time, postoperative survival rate, liver function, liver histopathology, and complications were recorded. After 28 days, anastomotic specimens were obtained to observe healing with the naked eye and light microscopy. Results: Among the 20 Sprague-Dawley albino rats, one rat showed bile leakage and died one week after ligation of the common bile duct and another rat was removed from the experiment because there was no obvious dilatation of the common bile duct. The remaining 18 rats successfully underwent surgery for biliary-enteric anastomosis using micromagnetic ring, with an average anastomosis time of 7.10 ± 1.15 min (range, 5.17–9.50 min). The expulsion time of micromagnetic anastomosis rings was 11.94 ± 2.48 days (range, 8–17 days). The bilirubin level dropped to normal 1 week after surgery. Biliary-enteric anastomotic specimens were obtained 28 days after surgery, and microscopic observation showed that the mucosal layer of the anastomosis had good continuity and the anastomosis was smooth. Conclusion: A micromagnetic ring can be used to construct a rat biliary-enteric anastomosis model, and it offers advantages, such as simple operation and reliable anastomosis effect.