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Ophthalmic artery microcatheterization for research purposes in pigs. A technical note
Flavio Requejo1, Sergio Sierre, Juan Marelli
11Department of Interventional Radiology, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría "Prof. J.P. Garrahan", Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Summary
This study details a microcatheterization technique for the external ophthalmic artery in pigs, proving it
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Interventional Radiology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Minimally invasive techniques are crucial for ocular research and training.
- Accurate delivery of therapeutic agents to the eye requires precise vascular access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel microcatheterization technique for the external ophthalmic artery (EOA) in a porcine model.
- To establish a reliable method for investigational and training purposes in veterinary ophthalmology.
Main Methods:
- Carotid angiography was performed in seven domestic pigs.
- A microcatheter was used to access the external ophthalmic artery (EOA).
- The technique aimed to facilitate targeted delivery of neoplastic drugs to the eye.
Main Results:
- The external ophthalmic artery (EOA) was consistently identified originating from the infraorbital (IO) artery.
- The EOA was successfully accessed via microcatheterization in all seven animals.
- The anatomical course of the EOA was clearly delineated through angiography.
Conclusions:
- The external ophthalmic artery (EOA) can be reliably catheterized in pigs using external carotid (EC) artery landmarks.
- This technique provides a valuable tool for ocular research and surgical training.
- The described method facilitates targeted ocular drug delivery in a preclinical setting.

