Experience with a method for anatomic dissection that allows macro and microscopic examination of the cardiac arteries

Abstract

AIMS: There are few descriptions of techniques for dissecting the cardiac arteries. This article presents the experience with a technique that allows histological evaluation of atherosclerosis and concomitant macroscopic evaluation of anatomic alterations. METHODS: Fifty dissections were performed by using this technique. The arteries from the inferior wall are dissected first, from their ends until their origins, then the anterior wall, the left coronary and the right coronary arteries. RESULTS: Dissection takes from 20 to 40 minutes to be performed. All anatomic alterations could be evaluated, and there was no compromising in the analysis of atherosclerosis. The heart and the adipose tissue could be used afterwards for further analysis. CONCLUSIONS: This technique is specific for the dissection of the arterial bed of the heart for the analysis of atherosclerosis possible anatomic alterations. Damage to the vessels and the myocardium is minimum, and the technique is fast and can be easily performed during autopsies or adapted for the surgical center.