Intravenous Sampling and Administration in Rodents

This technical report discusses the challenges and modifications associated with the use of vascular access buttons (VAB) for intravenous sampling and administration in rodents. It outlines the importance of long-term catheter patency in chronic toxicological studies, emphasizing that VABs provide a closed system for blood collection and dosing while allowing for group housing, which reduces stress. The report details a retrospective review of nine studies involving 664 VAB-implanted rats and 20 mice, identifying the need for modifications to improve animal welfare and data quality. Key changes included extending the acclimation period, regular cleaning of surgical sites, and adjustments in husbandry practices. The findings indicate that these modifications led to a reduction in the frequency and severity of surgical site inflammation and the need for veterinary treatment. However, the report also notes the lack of comprehensive histopathological evaluations in subsequent studies, suggesting the need for larger studies to further assess the impact of these modifications.