Objective     To determine the effect of portal vein occlusion (PVO) on hepatocellular apoptosis in rats with obstructive jaundice (OJ).     Methods     Sixty rats were randomly divided into two groups

group A and group B. The rats of group A received ligation of common bile duct

and in 1 week after which followed by biliary tract recanalization

liberation of portal vein

resection of caudate lobe of liver and then closure of abdomen in 90 min later. For the animals of group B

they were given portal vein bypass in caudate lobe of liver

PVO of left hepatic tissue in 90 min

then recovery of portal vein flow and resection of caudate lobe of liver. Liver tissue and blood samples were collected at 0

1

6

24 and 72 h post operation

one time point for 6 rats. The histological changes were observed by light and transmission microscopy

hepatic function and serum endotoxin level were measured by biochemical methods

and hepatocellular apoptosis were detected by TUNEL.     Results     Compared to group A

group B presented more severe damaged hepatic function

higher level of endotoxin and more obvious hepatocellular apoptosis.     Conclusion     In the condition of OJ

PVO may damage hepatocelluar mitochondria which leads to cell apoptosis.