Domestic pigs in the study of myocardial ischemia

During the last 10 years there has been a growing interest in the use of domestic pigs in the study of various aspects of myocardial ischemia. While most studies are still performed on dogs, a number of scientific and non-scientific (emotional) reasons have led to a shift from the use of the former to that of domestic pigs. In this paper the suitability of the pig for cardiovascular studies is dealt with, with special attention to the coronary and collateral circulation. A number of manifestations of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion of previously underperfused myocardium such as ventricular arrhythmias, metabolism and recovery of function are discussed. Where possible, the comparison is made with findings in the dog.