Protection of the ischaemic myocardium by glucose-insulin-potassium infusion assessed by ventricular function and electron microscopy.

The protective effect of GIK infusion on the ischaemic myocardium was assessed by isovolumic function tests and electron microscopy. There were two control groups, group 1 hearts underwent 2 hours of continous normothermic cross-perfusion and group 2 hearts endured 2 hours of ischaemia. Group 3 hearts were administered GIK solution prior to ischaemic arrest. The group 3 hearts showed less loss of contractile force and contractile velocity from the ischaemic period compared to group 2 hearts, but no benfit was shown in terms of compliance. Electron microscopic examination showed slightly less damage in the group 3 hearts compared to group 2 hearts. Group 1 hearts maintained better function than either of the other two groups. Ultrastructure was not examined in group 1 hearts. A slight protective effect of GIK on the ischaemic myocardium was thus confirmed.