Abstract: To establish a stable and repeatable heterotopic rat heart transplantation model，the classical Ono’s procedure was modified and the factors which influence the success of transplantation were explored in this article. The modification is that the donors’ brachiocephalic trunk and right pulmonary artery were anastomosed end to side with the recipients’ abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava respectively. In contrast to the classical operation, the occlusion time of the inferior vena cava and abdominal aorta was significantly shortened,and the time of cold ischemia was also shortened in the improved technique. Furthermore,the amount of bleeding also decreased. The improved technique showed superior to the classical Ono’s procedure and is recommended to be used more widely.

Key words: Heart transplantation, Rat, Improved technique