SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OXYGENATION OF THE HEART USING SUBPERICARDIAL FLUIDS

摘要

The present invention relates to a system and method for oxygenation of ischemic tissue. In particular, the present invention relates to a system and method for supplying oxygen to the myocardium of the heart through means other than the coronary arteries. The system of the present invention comprises a catheter which may be used to infuse preoxygenated carrier solutions, such as perfluorocarbon emulsions, directly into the pericardial space; i.e. the space between the pericardium and the epicardial surface. The preoxygenated solutions may be periodically or continuously withdrawn and fresh solutions then infused into the pericardial space.