ATP-MgCl2 utilization for spinal cord protection during experimental thoracic aortic occlusion

Background. In this experimental study we investigate the effect of intrave nous ATP-MgCl**2 administration for prevention of spinal cord injury occurr ing due to ischemia induced by aortic cross clamping. Methods. Ten rabbits were studied. The abdominal aorta is ligated below the left renal artery. Five rabbits served as a control group and received no medication during 30 minutes of ischemic period. The other 5 rabbits receiv ed during 30 minutes of aortic occlusion ATP-MgCl2 solution (100 mu mol/ml for each). Distal and proximal aortic pressures are measured during the pro cedure and incisions are closed. Rabbits are observed for 24 hours for thei r neurological status and scored accordingly. Specimens from the spinal cor d are taken for electron microscopic investigations. Results. All of the control group rabbits were paraplegic. One of the ATP-M gCl2 group rabbits was paraparesic and the others were normal. Distal aorti c pressure was 9+/-3 mmHg for the control group and was 17+/-4 mmHg for the ATP-MgCl2 group (p<0.05). Electron microscopic studies showed the preserve d ultrastructure for ATP-MgCl2 group. Conclusions. ATP-MgCl2 administration during spinal cord ischemia reduces s pinal. cord injury. This may be an alternative modality for the protection of the spinal cord during aortic surgery.