Detailed description of a cranial window technique for acute and chronic experiments

Methods for implatation of cranial windows for the direct observations of the pial microcirculation in experimental animals are described in detail. These techniques are suitable for both acute experiments in anesthetized animals and chronic implantation permitting several months of observation in awake animals. Experience over several years shows that these techniques have an acceptably low rate of failure, are low in cost and can easily be mastered in most laboratories. They make possible observation of the microcirculation and accurate measurement of the diameter of pial vessels, and permit study of the effects on the microcirculation of a variety of maneuvers and vasoactive agents which can be studied by direct application as well as by intravascular administration. Because they preserve the intergrity of the skull, the techniques permit study of the cerebral microcirculation under conditions closely approximating the normal environment of these vessels.