The Transcranial Cisternal Port (TCP): A Novel Technique for Repetitive Intrathecal Delivery in Mice

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Oncology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-directed therapies are crucial in neuro-oncology.
• Preclinical murine models face challenges with long-term CSF access due to anatomical limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate the Transcranial Cisternal Port (TCP), a novel device for sustained intrathecal access in mice.
• To assess the feasibility and long-term patency of the TCP for cerebrospinal fluid delivery.

Main Methods:

• The TCP procedure involves craniostomy and placement of a skull-anchored cannula into the cisterna magna.
• Placement was verified using a wire, and device security was achieved with surgical adhesive.
• Validation included Evans blue dye injection and assessment of functional retention over 3 weeks in 43 mice.

Main Results:

• Evans blue dye successfully distributed throughout the CSF spaces, confirming proper placement and delivery.
• The TCP demonstrated high functional retention rates: 93% at 7 days, 86% at 14 days, and 86% at 21 days.
• Complications included intraluminal clogging and adhesive bonding, with successful revision surgery in all cases.

Conclusions:

• The Transcranial Cisternal Port (TCP) provides a robust and scalable platform for reliable intrathecal delivery in preclinical murine models.
• While cannula patency is a limitation, future design improvements are anticipated.
• The TCP facilitates modeling of intrathecal regimens essential for advancing neuro-oncology research.