A modified procedure for lumbar intrathecal catheterization in rats

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Intrathecal catheterization is crucial for neuroscience and pain research in rats.
• Existing methods have limitations despite continuous improvements.
• A need exists for a more practical and reliable intrathecal catheterization technique.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple and practical intrathecal catheterization technique in rats.
• To adapt the 'needle-through-needle' technique from combined spinal-epidural anesthesia.
• To enhance catheter stability and success rates for research applications.

Main Methods:

• Rats underwent intrathecal catheterization using either laminectomy (control) or a modified needle-through-needle technique.
• Key metrics included operation time, success rate, and postoperative complications.
• Behavioral tests (paw withdrawal latency/threshold, Rota-rod) and body weight were monitored post-surgery.

Main Results:

• The modified method demonstrated higher success rates and better catheter immobility compared to controls.
• Less weight loss and minimal mortality were observed with the modified technique.
• No significant differences were found in spinal cord injury, hematoma, or catheter tip location; procedures did not affect behavioral tests.

Conclusions:

• The modified intrathecal catheterization technique is practical and effective for long-term research.
• It offers advantages in success rate, catheter stability, and animal welfare.
• This technique is well-suited for behavioral and pharmacology studies involving the spinal cord in rats.