Abstract
In 9 patients dying from non-cardiac causes, hearts were perfused with 2.5% glutaraldchydc (4°C) within 1–3 hrs of death. A modified pcrfusion pump was screwed tightly on a glass container filled with pcrfusion fluid, one plastic tube was connected to the pump outlet and another one to the inlet; both were filled with perfusion fluid and clamped. Tube from pump outlet was canulated into proximal aorta. An angiocath canula was inserted into this tube with its tip at level of coronary ostia: the other end was connected to a mercury manometer. Free end of the second tube was placed under perfusion fluid surrounding the heart. Clamps were removed from both tubes and pump motor was activated forcing perfusion fluid into aorta and coronary arteries and draining into a container in which heart was suspended. The second tube returned this fluid back to the pump. Continuous perfusion was maintained for 4 hrs at 100 niniHg and 4°C.
Comparison of histologic and ultrastructural findings in these perfused hearts with those of other investigators using standard techniques shows that the present method provides a simple but effective means of preserving the fine structures of the heart and its conduction system. These include transverse tubular system with triad characteristic of ventricular myocardium, Purkinje cells with absence of “T” system and characterized by large clear perinuclear zone and transitional cells in A-V node and pale (P) cells of S.A. node. In addition, this technique permits satisfactory gross examination and facillitates preparation of adequate tissue blocks from specific areas such as S.A. and A.V. node tor subsequent histologic and ultrastructural study of the heart and its conduction system.
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Sanyal, S., Thapar, M. & Johnson, W. A NEW APPROACH FOR PERFUSION-FIXATION OF THE HEART AND ITS CONDUCTION SYSTEM FOR HISTOLOGIC AND ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDIES. Pediatr Res 11, 399 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197704000-00182
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197704000-00182