Perfluorochemical perfusion of the isolated guinea pig heart.

We studied the influence of a perfluorochemical (PFC) emulsion on the ultrastructure and function of the isolated perfused guinea pig heart compared to a Krebs-Henseleit solution. The PFC perfusion enhanced the force of contraction and reduced the coronary flow rate, but had no influence on the frequency and the oxygen consumption. The positive inotropic action of K-strophanthin and isoproterenol was slightly strengthened, whereas the beta-adrenergic antagonism by propranolol and the vasodilatation by glycerol trinitrate remained unchanged. The positive chronotropic action of isoproterenol was reduced during PFC perfusion. No histological differences depending on the perfusion medium were observed. It is concluded that PFC perfusion improves the functional state of the Langendorff preparation.