Background: We have studied the alterations produced in the diastolic function of the left ventricle after applying a protocol of cryopreservation at subzero temperatures.
Methods: Isolated rabbit hearts and 5% polyethylene glycol (PM 4000) as the cryoprotective agent were used for the study.
Results-conclusions: Following cryopreservation we found a statistically significant increase in systolic function. However, the diastolic function shows worsening, with a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) in mean stiffness, decrease in differential stiffness, (p < 0.05) and upward and leftward displacement of the diastolic pressure-volume curve.