Isolated working heart models can be used to measure the effect of loading conditions, heart rate, and medications on myocardial performance and oxygen consumption. We describe methods for preparation of a rodent left heart working model that permits study of systolic and diastolic performance and oxygen consumption under various conditions.
DeWitt, E. S., Black, K. J., Kheir, J. N. Rodent Working Heart Model for the Study of Myocardial Performance and Oxygen Consumption. J. Vis. Exp. (114), e54149, doi:10.3791/54149 (2016).