A method for serial selective arterial catheterization and digital subtraction angiography in rodents.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Imaging is a key element in the study of many rodent models of human diseases. The application of DSA has been limited in these studies in part because of a lack of a method that allows serial intra-arterial examinations to be performed during an extended period of time. It was our intent to develop and test a method for performing sequential arterial catheterizations and DSA in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using a transfemoral approach, we subjected 12 adult male Harvey rats to 3 sequential DSA examinations during a 6- to 8-week period. At each examination, 2 selective arterial catheterizations and a DSA were performed. Animals were monitored for ill effects, and images from the 3 examinations were compared for quality and the presence of any arterial injury. RESULTS Ten of the 12 rats survived all 3 examinations. There were no adverse effects noted and no evidence of arterial injury from the examinations. CONCLUSIONS With the technique described, it is possible to perform serial arterial catheterizations and DSA in rats. This technique will be useful as an adjunct in the use of rodents for the study of human diseases.