Heart rate variability parameters in isolated rabbit hearts

Ischemia in seven New Zealand isolated rabbit hearts was studied by analysis of 35 standardized parameters conventionally used for heart rate variability (HRV). Aassessment of HRV was based on analysis of consecutive normal R-R intervals during control period, three ischemia periods and three reperfusion periods, each of 5 minutes duration. Variation of heart rhythm persists even in isolated, completely denerved hearts. Two parameters - HF peak and SD2 - may be used as marker of ischemia in isolated hearts.