Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 23, 2026
Non-Terminal Blood Sampling Techniques in Guinea Pigs
Published on: October 11, 2014
A liver core needle biopsy technique in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus)
Kamila Glińska-Suchocka1, Marcin Jankowski2, Krzysztof Kubiak2
1Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic of Horses, Dogs and Cats, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 47, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland. kamila.glinska-suchocka@upwr.edu.pl.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to describe a core needle biopsy technique in the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) and to assess the incidence of complications when applying this method. Biopsies were taken from the right hepatic lobe of 36 healthy guinea pigs under ultrasound guidance using a Tru-Cut needle. There were no immediate complications in 35 animals but ultrasound images showed a haemorrhage from the biopsy site in one guinea pig. The haemorrhage stopped after administering a sterile cooling dressing. One guinea pig died 13 days after the biopsy due to late complications. The procedure is in some animals associated with severe, potential life-threatening, complications. Assessment of the biopsy site by ultrasonography for 30 min after the procedure is recommended to allow timely handling of haemorrhage. The procedure is not recommended in animals with a suspected coagulopathy. Due to the risk of severe complications, this procedure should be restricted to guinea pigs where the result of the biopsy examination is expected to be valuable for the choice of treatment or prognosis. Owners should be made aware of the risks associated with the procedure.
Related Concept Videos
02:10The Nucleosome Core Particle
The paradox
Nucleosomes, paradoxically, perform two opposite functions simultaneously. On the one hand, their main responsibility is to protect the delicate DNA strands from physical damage and help achieve a higher compaction ratio. While on the other hand, they must allow polymerase enzymes to access DNA...
01:12The Nucleosome Core Particle
Nucleosomes, paradoxically, perform two opposite functions simultaneously. On the one hand, their primary aim is to protect the delicate DNA strands from physical damage and help achieve a higher compaction ratio. On the other hand, they must allow polymerase enzymes to access histone-bound DNA during...
01:27Liver Histology
Hepatocytes perform a variety of essential functions. They secrete...
01:30Liver Physiology
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can...
01:24Liver Regeneration
Cells of Liver
The liver comprises four major types of cells— hepatocytes, stellate, Kupffer, and sinusoidal endothelial cells. The hepatocytes are...
01:17Gross Anatomy of the Liver
Located under the diaphragm, the liver is almost entirely ensconced within the rib cage, providing it with substantial protection. Except for the superior most bare area, the liver's surface is...