Implantation of a pelvic nerve array in rats v1

Abstract

A pelvic nerve array is custom designed for implantation onto the pelvic nerve of male rats. This device is used for long-term (recovery) experiments. The device can electrically stimulate the pelvic nerve as well as record electrically evoked or spontaneous neural activity. Previously, we have successfully implanted rats for 2 months with no reports of biological adverse complications or damage sustained to the array. The surgical procedure is performed under anesthesia and should incorporate all local requirements for standards of animal experimentation, including methods of anesthesia, surgical environment, and post-operative monitoring and care.