Surgical preparation
Femoral veins were cannulated for venous access for drug administration.
The right common carotid and a femoral artery were accessed for
measurement of left ventricular pressure and recording of blood pressure
using a Druck PDCR 75 or a Bell and Howell type 4-422-0001 pressure
transducer. A tracheotomy was performed to facilitate respiration, and a
wide bore cannula secured in place. Subcutaneous stainless steel needle
electrodes were inserted to each limb for the recording of the
electrocardiogram (ECG). All animals were maintained at a rectal
temperature of 37 °C.