Abstract
The purpose of this study was to visualize the spatial patterns and connection
of channels created after percutaneous transmyocardial revascularization (PTMR)
in normal porcine hearts, and to estimate the relative contributions of
transmyocardial and coronary perfusion. Six pigs underwent PTMR creating
channels using radiofrequency ablative energy. Three-dimensional computed
tomography imaging of channels 1 hr after PTMR showed the direct connection of
PTMR channels to the myocardial capillary network and to epicardial coronary
vessels. In the heart, examined 28 day after PTMR, there was a fine, extensive,
network of microvessels originating from the site of the original PTMR channel,
also connecting the left ventricular cavity to myocardial capillaries.
Histopathologic examination of the 1-hr specimens showed numerous regions of
myocardial hemorrhage and associated inflammatory cell infiltration. In the
28-day specimens, newly developed new vascular network suggested
neovascularization within the core of these channel remnants. The
immunoreactivity for basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular
endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were intense within myocardium and neovascular
structure surrounding PTMR channel remnants. The vascular connections occur by
direct communication with existing myocardial vasculature acutely, and
angiogenesis in these channel remnant chronically.