The evaluation of liver function after partial hepatectomy in the rat: serum changes.

In serial studies of hepatic function in rats after 70% partial hepatectomy, quantitative changes were found in several of the serum components used clinically to assess liver status. The activities of the following enzymes were found to increase: gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and lactic dehydrogenase were maximal 6 h postoperatively, while glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase reached peak values at 24 and 48 h respectively. Albumin levels were found to be relatively constant during the study; however, total protein concentration was lowest 6--12 h postoperatively, paralleling a decrease in globulin concentration. Bilirubin levels were elevated to 4x normal within 12 h after surgery. After partial hepatectomy calcium and phosphorus concentrations were significantly decreased at 24 and 12 h respectively. With the exception of alkaline phosphatase, the activities of all serum components measured returned to normal levels by 1 week after surgery; the alkaline phosphatase concentration continued to be elevated 2 weeks postoperatively.