[Possibilities for using extracorporeal circulation in the rat]

An extracorporal system of freely mobile, unanaesthetized rats is presented. This model was used in experiments on the biocompatibility of silicone rubber and new types of hollow membranes. The results confirm a sensitive reaction of haematological parameters to various test substances, thus indicating that the model is very suitable. Carrying out a membrane plasma separation in rats makes it possible also to use rats for studies on detoxification and thus to use the advantages offered by this experimental animal to the full.