Sutureless portal vein reconstruction in porcine orthotopic liver transplantation using a microvascular coupler: A randomized study with artificial intelligence-assisted histopathology

Figure 3 Doppler ultrasound and gross specimen evaluation. A: Doppler ultrasound and specimen evaluation of the coupler group. Columns 1-3: Doppler ultrasound images of portal vein velocity at pre-operation, 10 minutes post-operation, and 12 weeks post-operation for four representative cases. These images demonstrate stable velocity and patency. Column 4: Portal vein samples excised at 12 weeks, showing uniform healing and intact structures. Column 5: Liver specimens from the same animals, showing no visible ischemic damage; B: Doppler ultrasound and specimen evaluation of the hand-sutured group. Columns 1-3: Doppler ultrasound images at the same time points for four representative cases. Variable velocity and signs of stenosis or reduced patency are observed in some cases at 12 weeks. Column 4: Portal vein samples, showing occasional irregular healing and fibrosis. Column 5: Liver specimens, with some cases showing mild ischemic changes.