Arresting donor hearts with extracellular-type cardioplegia prevents vasoconstriction induced by UW solution

The effects of arresting donor hearts with University of Wisconsin solution was investigated. Donor dogs were divided into two groups according to the technique used for arresting the heart, In group I (n = 6) the heart was a rrested with University of Wisconsin solution, whereas in group II (n = 6) extracellular-type cardioplegia (K+ = 20 mmol/liter) was used to induce car dioplegic arrest. Aortic root pressure was measured during the infusion of solution at constant flow, In both groups, the hearts were then flushed and stored in cold University of Wisconsin solution for 6 h, The hearts were t ransplanted orthotopically and disconnected from cardiopulmonary bypass. Le ft ventricular function was evaluated by pressure-volume relations using a conductance catheter, Peak aortic root pressure during the infusion was sig nificantly higher in group I than in group II, although post-transplant lef t ventricular function was similar in both groups, Although there was no di fference in cardiac function after implantation, donor hearts should be arr ested by extracellular-type cardioplegia to prevent coronary vasoconstricti on associated with preservation in University of Wisconsin solution. (C) 19 98 The International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, Published by Elsev ier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.