MODIFICATION OF VAN LEERSUM CAROTID LOOP FOR DETERMINATION OF SYSTOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE IN DOGS

Abstract

Many times in experimental work on laboratory animals there is a definite need for a satisfactory method whereby determinations of blood pressure can be made over a long period. The van Leersum carotid loop meets many of the requirements for a satisfactory method, but in its construction it is associated with a high morbidity and mortality. For this reason we became interested in attempting to devise an operative procedure and postoperative course which would make this operation more successful. The purpose, therefore, of this paper is to describe in detail the choice and preparation of the animals, the operative technic and the postoperative care associated with the construction of the so-called van Leersum carotid loop in dogs.¹ The size and the age of the animal are of little importance in the ultimate success of the procedure, although in young and extremely active dogs it has been far more difficult