Establishment of a Modified Ferric Chloride-Induced Superior Sagittal Sinus Thrombosis

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a rare but potentially life-threatening neurological disorder. Animal models offer critical platforms for investigating their pathophysiology and evaluating potential therapies. In this study, we present a modified rat model of superior sagittal sinus (SSS) thrombosis using a FeCl₃-soaked suture technique. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (220-250 g) underwent a paramedian scalp incision and creation of a 1 cm cranial bone window over the SSS. Compared to the traditional midline incision, this approach prevents adhesion among the incised skin, the bone window, and the underlying dura mater. Additionally, it avoids the interference caused by suture knots located over the SSS, thereby improving the quality of ultrasound imaging. A 2-0 silk suture soaked in 40% FeCl3 was applied directly onto the exposed sinus for two consecutive 5-min intervals. Compared to the traditional FeCl3-filter paper method, this technique minimizes direct chemical injury to the parasagittal cortex. Laser speckle contrast imaging was employed to assess cerebral venous perfusion before and after FeCl3 application. A significant reduction in blood flow confirmed successful thrombosis. Seven days post-surgery, thrombus formation and hemodynamic changes were evaluated via high-resolution ultrasound and analyzed using Vevo LAB software, which provided volumetric and hemodynamic data of the thrombus. This modified model offers a reproducible, minimally invasive, and imaging-compatible approach for preclinical CVT research.