Electrical induction of coronary artery thrombosis in the ambulatory canine: A model for evaluation of anti-thrombotic agents

Abstract

A simple technique for the reliable induction of coronary artery thrombosis in a conscious dog by delivery of low amperage electric current to the intimal surface of the artery is described. Ibuprofen, an agent known to inhibit platelet function and prostaglandin synthesis is evaluated in this model. Comparison of myocardial infarct size, thrombus weight, arrhythmia development and scanning electron micrographs of drug treated and control animals indicate that Ibuprofen is capable of protecting against the deleterious effects of coronary artery thrombosis produced by this technique. This method holds considerable potential as an in vivo model of coronary artery thrombosis and one in which evaluation of anti-thrombotic agents is possible.