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Home / Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, Volume 38, Number 1

Open Access Stereotactic Surgery and Long-Term Maintenance of Cranial Implants in Research Animals

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Most neuroscience research is performed by using anesthetized animals or tissue samples obtained from animals that have been euthanatized. However, study of many important issues requires the use of animals that are alert and capable of engaging in behavior. Various methods have been used to humanely perform neuroscience experiments that involved unanesthetized animals. These techniques often involve surgical implantation of an apparatus that permits direct manipulation of brain tissue or measurement of neurochemicals or neuronal activity in conscious animals. We describe here common surgical techniques used to prepare animals for long-term neuroscience studies, discuss several issues related to short- and long-term postoperative care of animals with implants, and offer suggestions that veterinary and research personnel can use to prevent or mitigate some common problems that may develop when preparing and maintaining animals for these studies.

Document Type: Research Article

Affiliations: 1: Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee, Memphis, TN 38163 2: Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105

Publication date: 01 January 1999

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  • The Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (JAALAS) serves as an official communication vehicle for the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS). The journal includes a section of refereed articles and a section of AALAS association news. The mission of the refereed section of the journal is to disseminate high-quality, peer-reviewed information on animal biology, technology, facility operations, management, and compliance as relevant to the AALAS membership. JAALAS accepts research reports (data-based) or scholarly reports (literature-based), with the caveat that all articles, including solicited manuscripts, must include appropriate references and must undergo peer review.

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