A simplified technique for the production of experimental aortic regurgitation

A simple and effective method for the production of aortic incompetence in dogs is described. The instrument used in the procedure can be made easily and is robust. Controlled rupture of one or more of the three aortic valve cusps can be achieved without thoracotomy. There was no immediate operative mortality in the study and the time required to complete the procedure averaged 30 min. No evidence of healing of the cusp rupture could be found at necropsy even in dogs sacrificed 480 days after operation.