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Published on: February 9, 2022
Simple cannulation procedure for serial blood sampling through cutaneous ulnar vein in chickens
Darmel M Bayer1, K Mohan, K Jayakumar
1Veterinary Faculty Clinics Department, Nangarhar University, Jalalabad, Afghanistan.
Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science : JAAWS
|January 12, 2012
Summary
This study presents a simple, efficient technique for repeated, low-stress blood collection from the ulnar vein in chickens, crucial for pharmacokinetic and hormonal studies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Physiology
Background:
- Accurate blood sampling is essential for pharmacokinetic and hormonal assays in chickens.
- Minimizing stress during sample collection is vital for animal welfare and data integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a minimally invasive method for serial blood collection from the ulnar vein in broiler chickens.
- To assess the efficacy of heparinized catheters for maintaining patency during repeated sampling.
Main Methods:
- Cannulation of the ulnar vein in 5 commercial broiler chickens (6 weeks old, 1.7-1.9 kg).
- Serial blood sampling using heparin (10%) solution to maintain cannula patency.
- Observation for complications such as clotting, hematoma, or inflammation.
Main Results:
- Successful serial blood sampling was achieved in 4 out of 5 birds.
- Heparin solution effectively prevented clotting in most cases.
- One bird experienced cannula blockage, potentially due to air embolism, preventing proper sampling.
Conclusions:
- Ulnar vein cannulation offers a simple and efficient method for serial blood collection in chickens.
- The technique supports animal welfare by reducing stress and allowing repeated sampling.
- Further refinement may be needed to mitigate risks like air embolism for consistent success.

