Intracranial Infusion Protocol
++ see + Intracranial infusions for a more detailed page ++
Intracranial infusions are where using surgically implanted cannula and the infusion pump pharmacological agents are infused directly into various brain regions. Intracranial infusions particularly on awake, moving animals are difficult and close guidance should be given on part of the trainer and practice doing both sham and PBS infusions should be done before attempting infusions with pharmacological agents (e.g. muscimol). Be aware that the infusion process for sham and actual infusions (PBS / pharmacological agent) differ.
Preparing the infusion pump
1. First make sure the infusion pump settings are correct, the infusion volume, rate and size of the syringe should both be set to the required experimental condition.
2. Check the infusion tubing and infusion syringes for any damage and make sure there are minimum air bubbles present.
Sham infusions