A Technique for the Microscopic Study of Blood Vessels in Living Striated Muscle (Cremaster)

Abstract

A technique is described whereby it is possible to study the vessels of a striated muscle (the rat cremaster) in vivo. In the anesthetized rat, a part of the scrotal skin is excised; the cremaster muscle is exposed and studied by epi-illumination. To improve the optical conditions, a white reflecting surface is brought behind the cremaster through the inguinal canal. Twitching of the muscle may be prevented by the use of a neuromuscular blocking agent. It is also possible to study the blood vessels of the fascia overlying the cremaster. The method may also be applied to the rabbit; it is recommended for short-term studies in which topographic requirements prevail. Its advantages and limitations are discussed.