In biliary fistula dogs the plasma prothrombin falls eventually to low levels and bleeding commonly occurs. Faulty absorption of vitamin K from the intestine in these animals is an important causative factor. Feeding bile permits absorption of the traces of this vitamin normally present in mixed diets, and as a result a slow rise in prothrombin level is observed. If a standard diet is supplemented with large amounts of vitamin K concentrate the prothrombin rise is rapid, provided bile or bile salt is supplied to aid in the absorption.
Variations in the rate of prothrombin depletion in biliary fistula dogs kept on constant diet indicate the existence of additional factors which require further study. Our experience indicates that vitamin A and vitamin D supplements do not correct the prothrombin deficiency in biliary fistula animals.
