Laboratory animals
-
The collection of cerebrospinal fluid is necessary in order to determine its composition. It can then be used to diagnose various diseases. The aim of the study was to develop and optimize a technique for performing safe centesis for the collection of cerebrospinal fluid in piglets and its injection through the cisterna magna. ⋯ The authors identified and confirmed the correspondence of the crista occipitalis and the wings of the atlas with the external landmarks on the cadaver by means of direct radiological visualization. The punctures were performed successfully at the first attempt in 11 out of 12 anaesthetized piglets. The technique herein described provides a reproducible safe and easy route for approaching the cisterna magna for cerebrospinal fluid collection, drug administration and gene delivery.
-
Comparative Study
Pressure and volume controlled mechanical ventilation in anaesthetized pregnant sheep.
Optimal mechanical ventilation of the pregnant ewe during anaesthesia is of vital importance for maintaining fetal viability. This study aimed to compare peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), oxygenation and cardiovascular parameters with pressure-control (PCV) or volume-control (VCV) mechanical ventilation of anaesthetized pregnant sheep. Twenty ewes at 110 days gestation underwent general anaesthesia in dorsal recumbency for fetal surgery in a research setting. ⋯ Arterial oxygen tension was higher in the PCV group (P = 0.013). Mean and diastolic pressures were lower in the PCV group (P = 0.029 and P = 0.047, respectively). Both VCV and PCV provide adequate oxygenation of pregnant sheep anaesthetized in dorsal recumbency, though PCV may provide superior oxygenation at a lower PIP.