The effect of glucagon on total liver blood flow after occlusion of the hepatic artery. A study in anesthetized, normotensive dogs.

It has earlier been shown that the hormone glucagon has the property of increasing liver blood flow both in normotensive dogs as well as in dogs in hemorrhagic shock. This study was done to evaluate the effect of glucagon given in normotensive dogs after occlusion of the hepatic artery. Glucagon was given in a single dose of 50 mug/kg bodyweight. The study shows that glucagon under these circumstances increased total liver blood flow 67% compared to an increase of 3% in a control group. The increase is statistically significant compared to the effect of placebo injection in a control group. A benefit of the hormone is suggested in man in surgical situation where occlusion of the hepatic artery becomes necessary.