Circulatory Support by Pump-Oxygenator in Experimental Ventricular Fibrillation and Acute Left Heart Failure induced by Coronary Artery Ligation

Abstract

Sixteen cases of intractable ventricular fibrillation and four cases of acute left heart failure were produced in 20 dogs by coronary artery ligation. Circulatory support via peripheral cannulation, using a bloodless-prime pump-oxygenator, enabled 15 animals to regain control of their circulation. Factors involved in support during myocardial ischaemia are discussed.