The cerebral function monitor (CFM) is a useful addition to a bilateral carotid artery, vein graft model

Abstract

Following human coronary artery bypass surgery, vein graft occlusion is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. An agent is required which will reduce the incidence of early graft thrombosis without causing systemic bleeding. To assess the efficacy of such agents a suitable experimental vein-graft model is required. A porcine, unilateral saphenous vein-carotid artery bypass graft model has been described previously, although to assess the effect of locally applied anticoagulant drugs, insertion of grafts bilaterally would be advantageous, allowing treated and control grafts to be implanted in the same animal which would then act as its own control. Pigs are reported as having an excellent collateral cerebral circulation and hence in theory, would be suitable animals to use as a bilateral carotid vein-graft model. This paper describes the occurrence of serious neurological complications during the development of such a model and suggests that by using a cerebral function monitor, detection of critical reductions in cerebral perfusion can be made early and remedial action take.