A New Fixation Method for Acupuncture Treatment in Rats

Researchers always encounter the problem that animals are difficult to control in acupuncture-related animal experiments. There are already some methods to prevent animals from escaping treatment sites. However, the effect of these fixation methods is different from the human treatment state. Therefore, we have invented a new fixation method to keep rats prone, quiet, and awake during treatment. The equipment consists of a porous plastic restraint platform, a square cotton cloth, and several restraint straps for fixing rats. First, thread the restraint straps into the restraint platform. For each strap, pass it through two holes in the same row, leaving two holes between them. After positioning the first strap, insert the other strap into the platform in the same manner, ensuring a four-row gap between the two straps. Second, grab the rat's tail and guide it into the channel formed by two restraint straps. Cover the rat's head with a square cotton cloth. Third, tighten the restraint strap on the neck to fix the head and forelimbs. Then hold the rat's hind limbs and tighten the other strap to fix the waist and hind limbs. This method does not require anesthesia. The device is simple and easy to operate. To evaluate its efficacy and safety, we administered the procedure to 60 rats. All of them completed the acupuncture treatment without complications. While 14 rats exhibited brief periods of struggle during the procedure, no adverse effects were observed. The results demonstrate that the method is effective and safe for use.