Simple reliable method for chronic cannulation of the jugular vein for pharmacokinetic studies in rats

A simple method for the preparation and implantation of silicone cannulas into the rat jugular vein is described. The implanted cannula can be used to administer drugs and collect blood samples at intervals of less than or equal to 1 min without causing stress to the animal. If necessary, the animals can be exsanuinated within a few minutes using this cannula. With proper maintenance, the cannula is patent for weeks and could be used for repeated and crossover studies.