Cardiac Output Add-On Module to LabChart 8

The MLS340/8 Cardiac Output Module Version 8 for Windows and MAC provides the user with an analysis tool to easily extract and calculate cardiac output from small animals, using the thermodilution technique and recorded in LabChart. The Cardiac Output Module should be used with the latest version of LabChart.

Features

Calculations

• Cardiac output in mL/min

• Baseline temperature

• Area under the thermodilution curve

• Baseline slope correction

It also adds values to the Data Pad from which data can be exported to other applications.

The Cardiac Output Settings dialog box allows the user to define the parameters used in the calculation of cardiac output. A Correction factor option has been included in the settings for the user to account for warming of the injectate as it is injected through the catheter or any other correction factor related to the experimental setup/conditions. Depending on the injectate temperature, there may be some permanent cooling of the blood. As the cold/cooled fluid is recirculated the thermodilution curve does not return to its baseline value. The Tail fitting range allows the user to define a portion of the downslope of the recorded thermodilution curve from which an exponential curve is calculated and extrapolated to a baseline. The portion of the downslope used in this calculation is specified as a percentage of the curve full height.

The baseline temperature is important in calculating CO and is calculated for each thermodilution curve created and analyzed. The user in selecting the curve is also required to define a period of time prior to the thermodilution curve for the module to determine baseline temperature. Two parameters are required from the user:

• The Onset time defines the period of time there is beginning to be a temperature change (the data in this period will not be used for the baseline calculation).

• The user sets the time interval for baseline temperature determination in the Calculate baseline from text box. The module will calculate the baseline over this time interval, with the period selected ending at the start of the onset period (see Cardiac Output window above).

Baseline Correction

Any baseline drift can also be corrected by selecting baseline data and choosing Set Baseline Correction from the Cardiac Output menu. Selecting OK will automatically insert the correction factor in the CO calculation, or it can be turned on or off in the Settings dialog box by checking or unchecking the Baseline slope correction text box. The capture option in the Setting dialog box allows the user to mark the selected thermodilution curve with the CO values as well as automatically adding the calculated values for each thermodilution curve to the Data Pad.

Available as Part of LabChart Pro

The MLS340/8 Cardiac Output Module is also available as part of LabChart Pro. Visit the LabChart Pro information page prior to making a purchasing decision. Existing LabChart users and PowerLab system purchasers can upgrade to LabChart Pro at a special price.