Effect of octreotide on postoperative intraperitoneal adhesions in rats.

Abstract

Octreotide, a long-acting somatostatin analogue that can inhibit glycosaminoglycan synthesis by fibroblasts in skin, may be a potent inhibitor of postoperative intraperitoneal adhesions. An animal model was developed to evaluate the effect of octreotide. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Laparotomy with a 15-cm intestinal resection and reanastomosis was performed on each group of rats. The intestinal serosa was also scratched to induce adhesion formation. No medication was given to group-1 rats (C). Group-2 rats received peritoneal irrigation with 6 ml normal saline intraoperatively (NS). Group-3 rats received irrigation with 6 ml octreotide solution (5 micrograms/ml) intraperitoneally (Oc). Group-4 rats received irrigation with 6 ml octreotide solution intraoperatively and 10 micrograms/kg of octreotide injection intramuscularly twice a day for 14 days (Oc + IM). All rats were killed 2 weeks later. The number of fibrous bands at and away from the anastomotic site was recorded. The strength and extent of the fibrous bands were also measured. The total scores of intraperitoneal adhesion bands were significantly reduced in group Oc and group Oc + IM rats when compared with group C (p < 0.05). When the fibrous bands at the anastomotic site and away from it were distinguished, the results were the same. As to the strength and extent of intestinal adhesions, the data showed no significant difference among all four groups. These data supported the suggestion that octreotide can reduce the incidence of postoperative intraperitoneal adhesions in rats.