[Microsurgical catheterization of the intrathecal space in the rat for chronic infusion of drugs].

An original technique for placement of intrathecal catheters suitable for drug administration is described. For implantation a microsurgical laminectomy is carried out, opening the dura mater and placing the catheter under surgical microscope control. Only a few instrumentation is mandatory. The mean time for this surgery was between 15 and 20 minutes. A 10% of the animals operated on developed neurological deficits and must be dropped. The mortality rate was a 5%. No catheter malfunctions were found.