Investigation on the feasibility of left ventricle and coronary artery angiography through femoral artery 1in rabbits

Abstract

Objective To investigate the feasibility of performing left ventricle and coronary artery angiography in rabbits through femoral artery as a method to provide accurate assessment of cardiac function in heart failure and myocardial infarction. Methods A total of 20 New Zealand rabbits were used and left ventricle and coronary artery angiography was performed through femoral artery. Peak left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP), left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were recorded. Results Left ventricle and coronary artery angiography was successfully conducted in 12 rabbits, but failed in 5 rabbits during catheterization. The other 3 rabbits died during the procedure. The mean LVEDP was (5.08±2.01)mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), the mean LVSP was (101.04±21.12) mmHg, and the mean LVEF (68±7)%. Conclusions Left ventricle and coronary artery angiography through femoral artery in rabbits is feasible and can be used to accurately evaluate cardiac function. The method is reliable, but has strict requirements on equipment and training. Key words: Coronary angiography; Ventricular function, left