I am working to establish a protocol for ICV drug administration via an Alzet osmotic pump brain infusion kit using mice. Although, this is a well-established technique, I continue to have issues with incision closure over the cannula. I completed a couple pilot studies using nylon discontinuous sutures. Typically, the white cannula would break through the incision within a day or two and continue to get bigger without intervention.

I am now using a mattress suture to close and still having the same issue with the white cannula exposed within a week.

Upon literature review I noticed that other labs suggest using staples, but I'm afraid there may not be enough skin restate for this method.

Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated? do you think changing to a silk suture would make a difference?