World Neurosurg
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Experimental animal models of ischemic spinal cord injury (iSCI) are essential for studying its pathogenesis and for developing new therapeutic strategies to improve functional recovery in humans. Many existing models, however, exhibit high variability or early lethality. A reliable experimental iSCI model would significantly advance novel treatment approaches for these severe neurological disorders. To this end, we have established a rat model of persistent iSCI with an extended lifespan. ⋯ We have successfully developed a rat model of persistent iSCI. This protocol proves to be highly reliable and holds promise for evaluating new therapeutic strategies aimed at promoting functional recovery in patients suffering from spinal cord ischemia.