Aim: Two different models of kidney transplantation have been compared using 3 different techniques. The kidney grafts were procured from living donors (laparoscopic or laparotomic technique) and from cadaveric donors.
Methods: Twenty-four outbred piglets (Large White, weight range 24-27 kg) underwent kidney transplantation. We divided the recipients into 2 groups with the following characteristics: group 1 (n=12) was represented by orthopic kidney recipients whose grafts were retrieved by laparoscopic or lapartomic technique from living unrelated donors; group 2 (n=12) was constituted by heterotopic kidney recipients whose grafts were retrieved by laparotomic technique from unrelated cadaveric donors. In both groups, Grogoire-Lich technique and Politano-Laedbetter technique were used in order to perform ureteral-vescical anastomosis together with a new technique developed from our experience called Politano-Laedbetter modified. All transplanted pigs underwent double immunosoppressive steroid therapy (tacrolimus and micofenolate mofetil). The pigs were observed for 60 days.
Results: The survival rates in group 1 and in group 2 were 75% (n=9) and 66% (n=8), respectively. No significative differences were noted in length of operative time, creatinemia and ureamia levels in both study groups. The Gregoire-Lich technique was associated with a higher rate of complications.
Conclusion: Two different experimental models of kidney transplantation are feasible in pigs. The classic technique could be combined with the orthopic one based on the type of study needed.