Description and vascular evaluation of the model. (A) Schematic diagram of the experimental set-up of the human IP-spleen. A peristaltic pump provides flow into polypropylene tubing. The perfusate is aspirated from the reservoir through a bubble-trap and then pushed into 2 m of silicone gas-permeable tubing around which a 3% CO2/100% O2 atmosphere is maintained through a constant 1 L/min gas flow. Prior to entry into the spleen through a glass catheter, the perfusate is warmed using a 37.5°C-equilibrated heating coil. Cells, reagents, and samples for analysis are introduced into or removed from the reservoir. (B) Qualitative comparison of patient and IP-spleen parenchymal enhancement using contrast ultrasonography. Early and late parenchymal aspect after bolus injection of contrast agent, from an IP-spleen (Bi-ii) and a representative human volunteer (Biii-iv) showing the same progressive homogenous enhancement. For technical reasons, the ultrasonographic section is from anterior capsule to posterior capsule in IP-spleens, whereas it is from capsule to hilum in patients.
