Methodological analysis of an experimental spinal cord compression model in the rat

Abstract

A technique for producing graded spinal cord compression injuries in rats is described. A metal plate 2.2 x 5.0 mm in size is applied to the exposed spinal dura and loaded with weights. Neurological function is tested postoperatively on an inclined plane. Reading of the maximal angle of rat performance on this plane was found reproducible on comparison between different observers. Laminectomy per se had a minimal effect on the performance. Compression of 35 g for 5 min caused a pronounced but incomplete injury, with almost total recovery within 14 days and with no difference between animals on artificial respiration and those breathing spontaneously. Animals whose spine was fixed during the compression had a better outcome than those without such fixation.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Improve Recovery, whereas Omega-6 Fatty Acids Worsen Outcome, after Spinal Cord Injury in the Adult Rat

“…A second group of animals received a static compression injury of the spinal cord as described previously (Nystrom et al, 1988;Huang et al, 2006). Briefly, 22 animals were anesthetized using 2-3% halothane, and the spinal cord at the T12 level was exposed by laminectomy.…”

A nutrient combination designed to enhance synapse formation and function improves outcome in experimental spinal cord injury

“…A compression injury was delivered at vertebral thoracic level 12 (T12) (Nystrom et al, 1988;Huang et al, 2007a, b). The rats (200-250 g) were anaesthetized using 4% isoflurane (Abbott Laboratories, Berkshire, UK), and anaesthesia was maintained using 1.5-2% isoflurane Fig.…”

“…We hypothesized that administering this specific mixture of nutrients after SCI would improve functional outcome through neuroprotection and the support of regenerative processes. We investigated its therapeutic potential in a rat model of compression SCI (Nystrom et al, 1988), validated previously (Huang et al, 2007a, b). Chronic supplementation with FC led to markedly enhanced neurological outcome and tissue protection.…”

Investigation of photoplethysmographic changes using a static compression model of spinal cord injury

“…Apparatus developed for a well-established static compression system [5], [6], [7], [8] was adapted for this study. The apparatus consists of a stereotactic frame which holds the animal so that the spinal cord is maintained in a horizontal position.…”