Background: Experimental studies to assess aneurysm occlusion or perfusion typically rely on macroscopic examination or histological analysis but cannot assess dynamic perfusion.
Objective: To describe an easy-to-implement and inexpensive fluorescence angiographic technique for the in vivo assessment and imaging of the dynamic perfusion status of aneurysms and their underlying blood vessels in a rat model.
Methods: In a rat sidewall aneurysm model, the angiographic setup included 2 bandpass filters, a video camera, and a bicycle spotlight. After 48 rats underwent fluorescein angiography, dissections were performed to confirm the perfusion status by macroscopic and histologic examination of the aneurysm.
Results: Direct injection of 0.2 mL fluorescein 10% Faure achieved strong, clear visibility in all 48 aneurysms. Macro-/microscopic examination identified residual perfusion in 25 and complete healing in 23 aneurysms. Fluorescein imaging identified 21 of these 25 aneurysms (84%) with residual perfusion and 22 of 23 aneurysms (96%) with no residual perfusion.
Conclusion: Our fluorescein imaging technique proved efficient for the evaluation of aneurysm patency and parent artery integrity in this experimental setting. Fluorescein is nontoxic, can be re-administered if needed, and, in this technique, can expand the armamentarium for the preclinical evaluation of dynamic perfusion status.
Keywords: Aneurysm; Experimental; Fluorescein; Fluorescence; Rat; Video angiography.
Copyright © 2019 by the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.