Invasive blood pressure measurements in restrained but non-anaesthetized mice

We have developed a procedure for directly measuring mean arterial blood pressure in fully awake, non-anaesthetized mice. The technique involves surgical implantation of a small tube into the carotid artery. This tube is then passed under the skin, out through the nape of the neck, and secured in a position which exposes it to the surface. Mice are allowed to recover overnight and are then transferred to jigs which lightly restrain them while allowing access to the tube still inserted in the carotid. By attaching the tube to a pressure transducer, repeated or continuous measurement of blood pressure is possible.