Cranial window preparation

Attachment of a plexiglass plate to an intact skull is a simple procedure which
reduces complications and minimizes pain when multiple imaging sessions are required throughout the course of an experiment. This procedure eschews the need to open the scalp repeatedly. It improves recovery and survival outcomes for mice undergoing brain imaging.

Cost: $74 before Hope Center Member subsidy.

Post-Operative care

This procedure will cause the rodent to experience a mild pain level. Your animal will be given buprenorphine which will provide pain relief for 8-12 hours.

The following is the responsibility of the client and not included in procedure price.
For an additional fee, surgery core personnel will complete the following tasks and fill out the required DCM documentation (surgical record cards).

Rodent post-surgical monitoring card

Required for every surgical procedure, is the responsibility of the researcher and must be kept for 2 years.

Card Instructions

  • Monitor for 8-12 hrs for signs of pain and distress such as shaking, lethargy, chewing of tail, arched back, lack of grooming, etc.
  • Check surgical wounds for infection.
  • Mark the green card daily for 1 time point. 
  • Keep the card for 2 years.