Multiple application of drugs in rats--a new port system.

The implantation of a small port system for repeated intravenous applications of drugs in rats is described. The system basically consists of a Teflon catheter which is inserted into the right internal jugular vein. The open end of the catheter under the right foreleg is subcutaneously carried through to the back and closed by a small port. The port then is implanted into a skin pocket on the back of the rat. The advantage of this method is that repeated intravenous injections of drugs into rats can easily be applied with high accuracy. Complications were rarely observed (7%) and could be mastered successfully in all cases. Copyright 2002 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg