The optimal temperature for preservation of the myocardium during global ischemia.

To determine the myocardial temperature that provides maximal preservation of the heart during global ischemic arrest, five groups of dogs were studied (6 per group). In all animals, the aorta was cross-clamped for 120 minutes. Serial biopsies were done for determination of adenosine triphosphate and creatine phosphate, and study by electron microscopy. Starling curves were derived prior to cardiopulmonary bypass and 60 minutes after bypass. Mitochondrial changes were graded on a scale of 0 to 4. In the control group (Group 1), the aorta was clamped when the rectal temperature reached 25 degrees C (myocardial temperature, 18 degrees to 22 degrees C). In Groups 2, 3, 4, and 5, myocardial temperature was maintained at 6 degrees C, 10 degrees C, 14 degrees C, and 18 degrees C (all +/- 2 degrees C), respectively, by the use of systemic and topical hypothermia and repeated injections of cold cardioplegic solution into the aortic root. All groups showed a depression of left ventricular stroke work index, particularly Group 1 (no survivors), Group 2, and Group 3. The high-energy phosphate stores were well preserved in all groups except Group 1. The mitochondrial ultrastructure showed significant changes in all groups, especially Groups 1 and 5. These data indicate that satisfactory preservation of mitochondrial ultrastructure and high-energy phosphates was achieved at myocardial temperatures lower than 18 degrees C. Extreme hypothermia (Groups 2 and 3) was associated with significant reduction in ventricular function under the experimental conditions employed.