Generating Rabbit Liver Carcinoma Model: A Surgical Procedure to Implant Tumor Tissue in Left Lobe of Liver for Induction of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

First, prep an anesthetized rabbit in the supine position. Sterilize its abdomen and make a midline skin incision to expose the linea alba - a thin white band of collagenous tissue connecting the abdominal muscles. Next, dissect the linea alba and cut through the peritoneum - the serous membrane that lines the abdominal cavity - to access the intraperitoneal organs.

Locate the red-brown liver in the upper central abdominal region. The rabbit liver comprises the right, left lateral, left medial, quadrate, and caudate lobes. Identify the left lateral lobe, lying infero-lateral to the left medial lobe. Now, draw out the left lateral lobe and place it onto a dry gauze to prevent retraction into the abdominal cavity. Cover the organ with a wet gauze to keep it hydrated.

Meanwhile, process the tumor tissue of interest - obtained from a tumor-bearing donor - to acquire appropriately sized fragments. Using a blade, puncture the exteriorized liver capsule deep enough to create a small pocket for tumor fragment implantation.

Transfer the processed tumor fragment inside the pocket and remove the blade. Apply a hemostatic agent over the pocket to stop bleeding and prevent ejection of the tumor fragment. Post-hemostasis, return the liver inside the abdominal cavity. Suture the surgical incision and allow the rabbit to recover. Monitor the animal weekly, observing the growth of hepatic tumor.