A Simple and improved perfusion apparatus for isolated hearts

Abstract

A perfusion apparatus for mechanical and slectrophysiological studies on isolated mammalian hearts is described. The apparatus consists of a water jacketed perfusion set up with a thermostatically controlled moist chamber. The apparatus facilitates perfusion of physiological salt solution (PSS) either under constant hydrostatic pressure or at constant volume. PSS with different drugs or ions could be readily and easily changed without any risk of air bubbles and keeps the heart beating for hours. The apparatus also provides better physiological situation compared to the conventional Langendorff perfusion heart technique. The apparatus is particularly useful for both research and teaching.