The method of long-term catheterization of the vena jugularis in pigs

The pig is one of the most valuable in vivo models in biomedical research, however with only a few well-accessible veins suitable for venipuncture. Moreover, most of the known methods of blood collection are suitable only for a limited time period. The aim of the study was to verify an improved method of long-term catheterization of the jugular vein in pigs.

A 420 mm polyurethane catheter 16G tube was surgically inserted using the Seldinger technique. The part of the tube that was not inserted into the vein was threaded through a subcutaneously introduced trocar into the occipital area, where it was well accessible and well protected from damage. The catheters were flushed with sterile 0.9% saline solution and locked with 4% citrate between frequent blood samplings, or with 30% citrate at intervals of 1-2-days. Once a week, the catheters were locked with 4% citrate containing taurolidine for 24 h in order to prevent infection. The method was verified in 14 pigs.

The catheters were fully functional for up to 11 weeks and no infection or thrombus was observed.

This method of catheterization and catheter care allows the realization of long-term experiments with comfortable and stress-free blood sampling.