Improved technique for rodent microarteriography

We have developed new techniques in rodent microarteriography which provide excellent two-plane views of the rat femoral artery. These techniques employ routine mammography film and equipment for imaging as well as standard intravenous catheters for vascular access. The use of mammographic equipment provides high quality, finely detailed, orthogonal X-ray images. The elective outpatient nature of mammography allows microsurgical investigators convenient access to the necessary equipment without interfering with patient care. The standard intravenous catheters permit easy and inexpensive vascular access via the contralateral femoral artery. The technique avoids the more invasive thoracic and abdominal aortic approaches without compromising X-ray image quality. Additionally, the same rat can be imaged multiple times if care is taken to repair the vascular access route.