Protocol for dorsal ovariectomy and elastase-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm in rats

Women have increased abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) growth rates and a higher rupture risk, yet hormonal effects remain unclear. We present a protocol combining dorsal ovariectomy with elastase-induced AAA formation in female rats. We describe bilateral dorsal ovariectomy, a 42-day hormone depletion period, and ventral elastase infusion for AAA induction. This approach prevents adhesions encountered with traditional ventral techniques, increasing experimental feasibility and success. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Sastriques-Dunlop et al.¹.