Cerebrospinal fluid collection in rats: modification of a previous technique

Modification of a previously published technique for cerebrospinal fluid collection in rats is described. This technique uses general anesthesia, a supporting platform to flex the head-neck junction, a surgical approach to the dorsal atlanto-occipital region, and a micromanipulator to hold and control the approach of the collection needle. Critical steps for success of the procedure are correct positioning, avoiding premature incision of the subarachnoid space, and alignment of the collection needle with the midline and longitudinal axis of the head. The authors had a 95% success rate in obtaining > 0.1 ml of cerebrospinal fluid, using this technique.