Optimal continuous retrograde coronary perfusion flow rate with beating heart in normal temperature.

:  Purpose:  We were led to the premise that with retrograde oxygenated blood perfusion, it would be possible to perform operations on the beating heart. Methods:  The experiment consisted of two stages: procedure 1 and 2. In procedure 1, six pigs were used. Retrograde perfusion flow was controlled to be in the range of 5.0–10.0 mL/kg/min and was gradually increased. In procedure 2, six pigs were used. Retrograde perfusion was continued for 120 min at the optimal flow rate obtained from procedure 1. Results:  The optimal flow rate was 7.0 mL/kg/min in procedure 1. In procedure 2, retrograde perfusions for 120 min were performed with perfusion flows set at optimal flow rate. Conclusions:  The procedure used in this study made it possible to maintain empty beating heart with normal sinus rhythm for 120 min, and the results suggest the possibility of clinical application to open heart surgery.