Endothelial response on prostaglandin inhibition after acute limb ischemia in animal models.

PURPOSE: This study was undertaken to determine effects of Prostaglandin (PG) synthetase inhibitor on vascular endothelium after acute limb ischemia in animal models.

METHODS: Analysis of vascular endothelial response was made after acute occlusion of the right femoral artery and IV administration of PG synthetase inhibitor in 21 mice. Group A (n=5) received only Heparin and served as controls; Group B (n=8) received Heparin + PG synthetase inhibitor prior to reperfusion and Group C (n=8) received Heparin + PG synthetase inhibitor after reperfusion.

RESULTS: Histoligical analysis of the vascular endothelium showed evidence of minimal intimal injury with smooth appearance of the vessel wall in mice treated with PG synthetase inhibitor in combination with heparin, in contrast to the edematous appearance of the vessel wall in mice given heparin alone.

CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that addition of PG synthetase inhibitor in treatment of acute limb ischemia reduces injury by maintenance of integrity of vascular endothelium.