Biochemical balance in the energy metabolism of fetal organs after perfusing the amniotic cavity with oxygenated fluorocarbon.

In order to determine the oxygen-dependent energy balance after perfusing the amniotic cavity with oxygenated fluorocarbon, hearts and livers of 30 rabbits [correction of rat] fetuses were investigated on the 28th day of gestation in a double-blind study 20 min after complete interruption of the uterine blood supply. ATP, creatine phosphate, glucose, lactate and glycerine were quantitatively measured by direct spectrofluorometry. The results show a tendency towards higher energy reserves after fluorocarbon treatment. However, under the described experimental conditions the oxygen supply seems yet too small for clinical purposes.