Prevention of saphenous vein grafts from endothelial injury, which were prepared via traditional methods in cardiovascular surgery

In this study; we aimed to compare effect of Aminocardol on vein wall that is not used before for prevention of vein grafts, and Verapamil, as well known agent for prevention of saphenous vein grafts from endothelial injury during preparation via traditional methods. In addition, we studied with blood cardioplegia solution which is containing high level potassium, for investigating the effect of potassium on vein wall. By the same surgeon, from 10 consecutive patients whom underwent CABG in Gazi University Department of Cardiovascular Surgery the saphenous veins were traditionally harvested and 10 centimeter of vein was used for study. Each harvested vein was divided to four parts. First parts of veins were fixed immediately without any process and were labeled as Group 1. Second parts of veins were processed with Verapamil, (with 100 mmHg 2 min. distending and 45 min. storing in group solution) and labeled Group 2. Same procedure was applied with Aminocardol and Blood cardioplegia solution, and labeled Group 3 and Group 4. All preparats were divided to two parts for examination under light and electron microscopy. In microscopic examination, intima, media thickness was measured and cells counted according to destruction level. (Grade 1-2-3-4) Data of study was analyzed on SPSS 15 statistic pocket program. In all groups there were no significant differences (p>0.01) between intima, media, Grade 2 and 4 cells. However, there was a significant difference for Grade 1cells between with control and verapamil group, and decided that verapamil was not effectual to prevent vein wall. Between control and cardioplegia groups there were a very significant difference (p<0.001) for Grade 1 and 4 cells and considered that vein wall seriously damaged with potassium. On Aminocardol group all parameters nearly equal with control group (p>0.01) and tissue sections were similar as control group.