The isolated hind limb preparation as a drug distribution model.

A physiological characterization of isolated rat hind limb was carried out. If well defined, this experimental preparation provides an excellent isolated tissues model to study drug distribution in muscle, bone and/or fat. The qualitative and quantitative composition and regional flows to each tissue are essential parameters to be determined when this model is used in pharmacokinetic studies. The aim of this work was to characterize the isolated perfused hind limb of the rat and to discuss its potential usefulness as well as its advantages and disadvantages when used as an experimental model for pharmacokinetic studies.