Rat endovascular perforation model

Abstract

Experimental animal models of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) have provided a wealth of information on the mechanisms of brain injury. The rat endovascular perforation (EVP) model replicates the early pathophysiology of SAH and hence is frequently used to study early brain injury following SAH. This paper presents a brief review of historical development of the EVP model and details the technique used to create SAH and considerations necessary to overcome technical challenges.

Figure 1. SAH surgery

A shows rat on a stereotactic frame with endotracheal tube attached to the ventilator for respiratory support. B shows ICP cannula placement into the cisterna magna. C shows scrapping (thinning) of preiosteum for placing laser Doppler probe. D shows femoral bundle; note femoral nerve (FN), femoral vein (FV) and femoral artery (FA). Femoral artery will be cannulated for mean arterial blood pressure measurement. E shows common carotid artery (CCA) and external carotid artery (ECA). F shows retraction of ECA by a silk ligature and alignment with the ICA. G shows typical online real time recording of SAH event.

Figure 2. Considerations for SAH surgery

In A note tarnsillumination of neck for placement of endotracheal tube (ETT). In B note a stab wound resulting from stabbing of the brain tissue by suture used for ICA perforation.