Method for sectioning and sampling hearts for histologic evaluation after delivery of biological agents by transendocardial injection

The use of transendocardial (TE) injection as a validated method for delivering therapeutic agents to the diseased heart is increasing. Of the catheter systems currently available, TE injections guided by electromechanical mapping are attractive due to their minimal use of fluoroscopy and three-dimensional reconstruction capabilities that allow precise targeting of injections. We propose a method of cardiac sampling that takes advantage of the spatial accuracy of this system. Our preclinical experience with this methodology has yielded encouraging results, allowing a thorough examination of the injected areas through limited sampling.