Minor procedures are often performed under less stringent conditions than major procedures but still require aseptic technique and instruments and appropriate anesthesia . Major Surgery Major surgery includes invasion of the cranial, abdominal, or thoracic cavities. Any procedure that might leave the rodent with a permanent handicap, whether physical or physiological, would also be considered major surgery. The use of aseptic technique is mandatory in these surgeries to minimize the possibility of postsurgical infection . Consultation with one of the Division's veterinarian is recommended if you have questions regarding techniques appropriate for these situations.
Surgical technique needs to be meticulous, as for major surgery.
The most critical requirement is to inject only sterile solutions into the catheter. Solutions should be freshly prepared or stored under refrigeration if prepared in advance. The top of the vial or mouth of the container containing solutions for injection must be kept clean and wiped with alcohol or flamed before drawing up the solution. Inoculation of even a few organisms into an intravenous catheter may result in death of the animal due to sepsis. 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.