Technique for portal catheterization in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Surgical Techniques
• Primate Research

Background:

• Portal vein catheterization is crucial for various physiological and pharmacological studies.
• Previous methods in non-human primates have limitations in terms of invasiveness and suitability for conscious subject research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a reliable surgical technique for portal vein catheterization in rhesus monkeys.
• To establish methods for maintaining catheter patency and assess the safety of the procedure.

Main Methods:

• Surgical placement of silicone rubber catheters into the portal vein via umbilical, inferior mesenteric, right colic, or ileocolic veins in rhesus monkeys.
• Evaluation of right colic and ileocolic veins as preferred routes.
• Assessment of two catheter types (single end-hole and multiple end-hole) and maintenance strategies (periodic flushing vs. continuous flow of heparinized saline).

Main Results:

• The right colic and ileocolic veins were identified as the preferred routes for successful catheterization.
• Effective maintenance strategies were established: periodic flushing for single-hole catheters and continuous flow for multiple-hole catheters.
• No adverse clinical effects were observed in any of the catheterized monkeys, indicating a safe procedure.

Conclusions:

• A reliable and safe technique for portal vein catheterization in rhesus monkeys was successfully developed.
• The technique facilitates long-term studies using conscious, restrained animals.
• This method provides a valuable tool for advancing research in areas requiring direct portal vein access in primates.