Search

Evaluating new developments in surgical methods and materials of aortic bypass prosthetics requires the use of an appropriate animal model, a well established surgical protocol and post surgical aortography. This article describes the surgical technique, post operative care and the angiographic technique used for an apicoaortic conduit placement in a canine model.

Our institution has recognized both the scientific and ethical responsibilities for the humane treatment of laboratory animals in the Radiology Research Laboratory. The Laboratory Animal Resource Center is specific in its requirements for the procurement, housing, and general care given to those animals used in our laboratory. In accordance with NIH guidelines, Animal Care Committee rules require investigators to provide detailed descriptions of research protocols so that appropriate care can be assured. The investigator is responsible ultimately for the thoughtful treatment of the animals before, during, and after the investigation. In the forseeable future, the use of laboratory animals will continue to be of paramount importance to the advancement of biomedical and imaging technology.

Cerebral angiography of the dog performed in the radiology research laboratory is used to demonstrate the results of surgical and imaging research for which the canine model is used. This article describes the catheterization and radiographic techniques of a cerebral angiogram performed in the evaluation of a canine model being developed for use in a study of cerebral aneurysms.

A radiology research project investigating the relationship between vascular endothelial injury and thrombolytic therapy using streptokinase has provided valuable data that indicates the need for a re-evaluation of such therapy and warrants further investigation in the animal laboratory. The role of the radiology research technologist in such research is explained as well.

A computerized database management system is being used in our radiology research laboratory. Daily lab activities, inventory records, and experimental data are retrieved easily for editing and reporting purposes. Our database management system is an accurate, efficient system that is easily accessible and requires minimal manpower to maintain.

Research of the dissolution of atheromatous plaques requires animal testing before any delivery system can be used on human beings. Using Flemish Giant rabbits, atheromatous plaques are created in our radiology research laboratory by a surgical air drying technique and a high cholesterol diet. Plaque development is monitored by ultrasound scanning and serial angiography.

In this small rural community hospital, the performance of gastrointestinal examinations by a radiologic technologist has proven to be highly successful. This success has been demonstrated both in terms of increased cost-effectiveness and diagnostic quality.