Characterization of the Normal Portal and Hepatic Blood Flow of Adult Holstein-Friesian Cows

Abstract

In the past, hepatic blood flow in cows was invasively characterized to investigate different pathologies and physiological conditions. However, hepatic blood flow can be easily evaluated with transabdominal Doppler ultrasound. Sixteen healthy adult non-lactating, non-pregnant Holstein-Friesian cows were examined using B-mode and Doppler ultrasound between the right flank and 9th intercostal space to establish the best approach to the different parts of the portal and hepatic vein systems, and determine normal blood flow characteristics. The main portal vein was characterized by a turbulent, high-velocity flow due to the opposing confluence of the splenic and cranial mesenteric veins, while hepatic and caudal vena cava veins have laminar blood flow, in which the phasicity is considered mainly respiratory in origin. Reference values were determined in relation to the anatomical point of observation. In conclusion, transabdominal Doppler ultrasound of the portal system is a simple technique that allows non-invasive characterization of portal and hepatic blood haemodynamics in cows.

Clinical significance of half-hepatic blood flow occlusion technology in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma with cirrhosis

“…Total hepatic blood flow occlusion during surgical resection can completely block blood return to the portal vein system, resulting in gastrointestinal tract hyperemia, impaired mucosal barrier function, and high susceptibility to bacterial and toxin infections. Long-term blocking of portal blood flow can lead to portal vein and superior mesenteric vein thromboses[ 8 - 10 ]. More importantly, the blood entering the liver causes ischemic reperfusion injury of the liver parenchyma and distal organs after the blood flow is restored, and the liver function is seriously impaired.…”

Transabdominal Renal Doppler Ultrasound in Healthy Adult Holstein-Friesian Cows: A Pilot Study

“…The observed Doppler waveform corresponded to a low resistance profile with continuous diastolic flow, but with a small spectral window, indicating a higher velocity profile than more distal arteries [ 11 ]. Some turbulence was also detected in the Doppler profile of the renal artery and its main tributaries, which was partly explained by the large size of the vessel, which increased the Reynolds number, and some tortuosity extending from the aorta to the renal artery, as described for the portal system [ 31 ].…”

“…As part of a general study of the normal abdominal ultrasound examination in adult cows, a transcutaneous abdominal ultrasound exploration of the right abdomen was performed, from caudal to cranial, as previously described [ 7 , 31 ]. The ultrasound examination was conducted while the animals were standing in stocks without sedation.…”

“…All examinations were performed between 17:00 and 19:00, always by the same operator (J.D.B.-V.). The right abdominal skin was routinely prepared for ultrasonography, as previously described [ 31 , 32 ]. Alcohol and ultrasound gel were applied to optimize ultrasound probe contact with the animal´s skin.…”

Ultrasonography of Normal Adrenal Glands in Adult Holstein–Friesian Cows: A Pilot Study

“…As part of a general study of the normal abdominal ultrasound examination in adult cows, a transcutaneous abdominal ultrasound exploration of the right abdomen was performed, from caudal to cranial, as previously described [1,28]. A dorsal approach to the left abdomen was also included, to verify accessibility to the adrenal glands.…”