Background/Aims
To investigate the feasibility of Bakri balloon and Coda balloon placement
as a spacer between the liver and bowels using a swine model.
Methods
Six adult female swine weighing from 24.0 to 41.5 kg (mean, 31.5 kg) were included
for the study. After peritoneal puncture using a 21-G micro-puncture needle under ultrasound
and fluoroscopic guidance, a 0.035-inch guidewire (Terumo, Tokyo, Japan) was advanced
through the micro-introducer sheath. With sequential dilation of the tract with dilators up
to 18-Fr or 10 mm balloon, the Coda and Bakri balloon was advanced between the liver and
bowels. 50 mL and 200 mL of contrast were inflated for Coda and Bakri balloon, respectively.
Gross examinations focused on whether placement of the Coda or Bakri balloon was at the
correct location.
Results
Technical success was achieved for Coda balloon placement in six of the six (100%)
swine, and for Bakri balloon placement in five of the six (83.3 %) swine. The median placement
time for the Coda balloon was 10 minutes (range, 7-15 minutes), while the median placement
time for the Bakri balloon was 25 minutes (range, 17-35 minutes), which was significantly
longer (p<0.05). Gross observations at necropsy revealed that the Coda and Bakri balloon was
well placed between the liver and bowel.
Conclusions
Placement of Coda and Bakri balloons between the liver and bowels was
feasible. These balloons have a potential role as spacers between the liver and bowel during
radiation therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma patients. (J Liver Cancer 2015;15:106-111)