Abstract
Background: Previous large animal heart failure models led to inhomogeneous results. Therefore,
we developed a novel model combining rapid pacing with forced ventricular desynchronization.
Methods: Heart failure was induced in 20 pigs during a pacing period of 21 days. Group A (n = 10)
received one right ventricular lead (220 bpm). In group B (n = 10), two leads were
implanted in different right ventricular regions with beat-to-beat alternation of
activation sites (each lead 110 bpm). Sham-operated pigs (n = 6) served as controls.
Hemodynamics were invasively evaluated and tissue was analyzed by immunohistochemistry
and zymography. Results: Hemodynamics were significantly more impaired in group B with an increase of pulmonary
capillary wedge and central venous pressure and a reduction of cardiac index (control
4.3 ± 0.1 l/min/m2 ; A 3.6 ± 0.2; B 2.9 ± 0.2, p < 0.05). Heart-to-body weight ratio was significantly higher in group B. Histological
analyses showed a significant increase of cell diameters and interstitial fibrosis
with significantly higher collagen contents in group B. Conclusion: The new model with a combination of rapid pacing and forced desynchronization of
the ventricular contraction is superior to traditional heart failure models induced
solely by rapid pacing.
Key words
heart failure - cardiomyopathy - rapid pacing - animal model - asynchrony
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1 Both authors contributed equally.
Dr. M.D. Helge Möllmann
Department of Cardiology Kerckhoff Heart Center
Benekestrasse 2–8
61231 Bad Nauheim
Germany
Telefon: + 49 60 32 99 60
Fax: + 49 6 03 29 96 28 27
eMail: h.moellmann@kerckhoff-fgi.de