Intrathecal Catheter System
This 32-gauge Intrathecal Catheter is the key component of a delivery system specifically developed for use in the rat and other small research animals. A significant advancement over the standard polyethylene-based products generally used for such research, its material and size combine to produce a minimally reactive device, thereby reducing catheter-induced histopathology that could obscure other observations.
- Reduces catheter-induced histopathology
- Polyurethane catheter material causes substantially less nerve injury compared to other catheter materials
- For delivery of drugs to the brain
- Ideal for rats and other small animals
This 32-gauge Intrathecal Catheter is the key component of a delivery system specifically developed for use in the rat and other small research animals. A significant advancement over the standard polyethylene-based products generally used for such research, its material and size combine to produce a minimally reactive device, thereby reducing catheter-induced histopathology that could obscure other observations.
- Reduces catheter-induced histopathology
- Polyurethane catheter material causes substantially less nerve injury compared to other catheter materials
- For delivery of drugs to the brain
- Ideal for rats and other small animals
While studying the effects of intrathecally-injected anesthetics, researchers at the University of California at San Francisco encountered morphologic changes apparently induced by the implanted catheter. Micor was approached for its assistance in identifying a material that could reduce the nerve damage that was observed. These efforts suggested that 32 gauge polyurethane had the desired properties. (See graph.) Accordingly, a study was conducted comparing catheters composed of this material versus polyethylene or polyamide. Although sensory function did not differ significantly, nerve injury was substantially lower in animals implanted with 32-gauge polyurethane catheters.
This material is now incorporated into a commercially available device, the 32 gauge Intrathecal Catheter System. This system contains an 11.7 cm (4.6 in) catheter, a bonded connection assembly, and a PTFE coated stylet to facilitate placement. It is individually packaged and sterilized.