Canine Common BileDuct:  Chronologic Changes in Caliber After Cholecystectomy

Studies have shown that the common bile duct dilates after experimental cholecystectomy in the dog.^1,2 However, review of the literature does not reveal any information concerning the chronologic changes in the caliber of the duct after cholecystectomy. In an effort to provide data on the chronologic change in diameter, the following experimental cholangiographic studies were undertaken.

Materials and Methods  The gallbladder and the cystic duct were removed in six normal mongrel dogs weighing 12 to 15 kg. In each dog, a cholangiogram was made after injection of radiopaque material through the stump of the cystic duct at the time of the removal of the gallbladder.³After injection of the radiopaque dye into the common bile duct,⁴ operative cholangiograms were made, once in each of the six dogs, at intervals up to three months after the experimental cholecystectomy.In order to avoid the possible artificial distention of the