@article {Cesar:May 2009:0161-6412:414,
	author = "Cesar, Liliana",
	author = "Miskolczi, Laszlo",
	author = "Lieber, Baruch B.",
	author = "Sadasivan, Chander",
	author = "Gounis, Matthew J.",
	author = "Wakhloo, Ajay K.",
	title = "Neurological deficits associated with the elastase-induced aneurysm model in rabbits",
	journal = "Neurological Research",
	volume = "31",
	year = "May 2009",
	abstract = "<B>Objective:</B> Although the rabbit elastase-induced aneurysm model is currently used widely for endovascular research and device testing, procedural causes leading to animal morbidity and mortality have not yet been clearly described. We conducted a retrospective study to analyse factors contributing to neurological deficits in rabbits that underwent the elastase-induced aneurysm creation procedure at our research center from 2002 to 2005 in order to improve the technique and reduce procedure-related morbidity and mortality.<P></P><B>Methods:</B> A total sample of 38 animals that underwent the procedure under the same conditions was analysed in two groups: animals that presented neurological deficits (ND, <I>n</I>=15) and animals that were neurological deficit free (NDF, <I>n</I>=23). Data were collected by reviewing the animal records and radiographic images from the procedures. Statistical analyses using the Mann-Whitney test, unpaired <I>t</I>-test with Welch correction and Fisher's exact tests were performed to compare the two groups based on variables associated with endothelial injury and activation of the coagulation cascade.<P></P><B>Results:</B> The variables of animal weight (signifying state of health of the animal), total procedure time, total balloon occlusion time and clot formation were found to be significantly and/or very significantly correlated to ND presentation.<P></P><B>Discussion:</B> Successful creation of the rabbit elastase-induced aneurysm model depends on careful control over several technical details. Important variables governing outcome have been identified here. A specific, improved endovascular arrangement that facilitates maneuvering of the devices and reduces the risk of air emboli is presented.",
	pages = "414-419(6)",
	url = "http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/maney/nres/2009/00000031/00000004/art00018"
	doi = "doi:10.1179/174313208X346918"
}