A Novel Right Ventricular Volume and Pressure Loaded Piglet Heart Model for the Study of Tricuspid Valve Function

J Vis Exp. 2020 Jul 28:(161). doi: 10.3791/61251.

Abstract

Heart conditions in which the tricuspid valve (TV) faces either increased volume or pressure stressors are associated with premature valve failure. Mechanistic studies to improve our understanding of the underlying pathophysiology responsible for the development of premature TV failure are lacking. Due to the inability to conduct these studies in humans, an animal model is required. In this manuscript, we describe the protocols for a novel chronic recovery infant piglet heart model for the study of changes in the TV when placed under combined volume and pressure stress. In this model, volume loading of the right ventricle and the TV is achieved through the disruption of the pulmonary valve. Then pressure loading is accomplished through the placement of a pulmonary artery band. The success of this model is assessed at four weeks post intervention surgery through echocardiography, intracardiac pressure measurement, and pathologic examination of the heart specimens.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia
  • Animals
  • Echocardiography
  • Female
  • Heart Ventricles / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Ventricles / physiopathology*
  • Hemodynamics
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Male
  • Models, Animal
  • Organ Size
  • Pressure
  • Pulmonary Artery / physiopathology
  • Pulmonary Artery / surgery
  • Pulmonary Valve / physiopathology
  • Pulmonary Valve / surgery
  • Swine
  • Tricuspid Valve / diagnostic imaging
  • Tricuspid Valve / physiopathology*
  • Tricuspid Valve / surgery