Biopsy assessment of fifty hearts during transplantation.

The aim of the study was to evaluate myocardial protection during the transportation of human donor hearts stored at 4 degrees C in crystalloid cardioplegic solution. Biopsies were performed on 50 donor hearts before excision and at four subsequent time intervals during transplantation. Quantitative birefringence measurements on cryostat sections of the left ventricular biopsy specimens were used to assess myocardial function. Fifteen donor hearts had poor birefringence assessments before excision, and 67% received inotropic support after implantation; 22 deteriorated during transportation, and 50% received inotropic support; 13 were unchanged throughout the procedure, and none required inotropic support. This study demonstrates the need for improved protection of donor hearts during transportation and recommends the use of rigorous criteria in the selection of these hearts.