Effect of Hypocapnia and Respiratory Alkalosis on Cardiac Contractility.

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Abstract
Isolated myocardial strips of rabbit atrium were exposed to an oxygenated, modified Ringer-Locke''s solution having various levels of PCO2 CO2 tension pH, and bicarbonate. Peak contraction force and maximum rate of tension development were used to evaluate myocardial contractility. Exposure to a low PCO2 and control pH environment did not significantly change contractility. Myocardial performance was significantly increased by exposure to a bathing solution of low PCO2 and high PH. The change in pH may be the significant factor in the positive inotropic response to low PCO2.