ABSTRACT
Swine have been used extensively in procedures involving the use of cardiovascular catheterization laboratories, fluoroscopic imaging, and interventional radiology techniques (Gaymes et al., 1995; Smith et al., 1989; Swindle et al., 1992, 1994). The anatomy and surgical procedures involving the cardiovascular system have been discussed in Chapter 9. The relationship of the vessels entering and exiting the heart is illustrated here (Figure 12.1). Recommended anesthetics for cardiovascular protocols and methods of prevention of cardiac arrhythmias are discussed in Chapter 2. The purpose of this chapter is to provide practical guidance to the use of swine in catheterization and fluoroscopy laboratories. Atherosclerosis is also discussed in this chapter because of the close relationship of angioplasty techniques to the study of that technique.
