Figure 2: Experimental MI/R
2A: Diagram outlining the location of left anterior descending artery (LAD)-ligation and direction of myocardial sections/slices. 2B: Intraoperative picture of surgical approach through third intercostal space to the heart and LAD-ligation. 5-0 black-braided silk sutures are used to retract third and fourth rib. Myocardial ischemia is induced by LAD-ligation using 8-0 black-braided silk suture over a 1- to 2-mm piece of 0-0 suture placed for protection on the LAD to prevent the 8-0 suture from cutting into the LAD and myocardium.