The use of aseptic technique is mandatory in these surgeries to minimize the possibility of postsurgical infection. Consultation with the attending or clinical laboratory animal veterinarian is recommended if you have questions regarding techniques appropriate for these situations. The location of the area used for major rodent surgery is not critical but should be located in a portion of the laboratory that is not heavily traveled. The area immediately surrounding the surgery should be disinfected prior to surgery to decrease dust borne contamination. Surgical instruments must be sterile.
Heat sterilization is ideal.
Agents such as chlorine dioxide or gluteraldehydes can be used for cold sterilization. Chlorine dioxide is not documented as being toxic to animal tissue but will corrode stainless steel instruments. Glutaraldehyde must be thoroughly rinsed off of instruments with sterile saline or water before use of delicate items, such as drills and burrs. A pre-surgical evaluation should be performed to insure that your prospective patients are not overtly ill. The withholding of food is not necessary in rodents unless specifically mandated by the protocol or surgical procedure.