ObjectiveTo explore the feasibility of using new guided-catheterization and modified technique for hepatic artery catheterization in rabbits under direct vision. MethodsA total of 45 rabbits were evenly randomized into 3 groups. In group Ⅰ the catheterizations of hepatic artery were performed by conventional technique under direct vision; in group Ⅱ the catheterizations were performed with Seldinger technique under DSA; and in group Ⅲ the catheterizations were performed by the new guided-catheterization and modified retrograde technique under direct vision.Then the success rate, catheterization time and survival rate were compared after catheterization among the three groups. ResultsThe success rates of catheterization were 60.0%, 73.3% and 86.7% in group Ⅰ, Ⅱ, and Ⅲ, respectively, with significant difference found between group Ⅲ andⅠ(P<0.05). The periods of catheterization were (42.0±0.5) min, (31.4±0.8) min, and (25.2±0.6) min, respectively, with the periods in group Ⅲ being significantly shorter than those in groupⅡ and Ⅰ(P<0.05, P<0.01). The incidence rates of the adverse reactions and complications were 46.7%, 33.3% and 20.0%, respectively, with that in group Ⅲ being significantly less than those in groupⅡ and Ⅰ(P<0.05, P<0.01). ConclusionThe new guided-catheterization device and improved technique using transgastroduodenal artery not only can improve the quality and efficiency of hepatic artery catheterization in rabbits, but also is safe and easy-to-perform.