Hello,
I'm starting to do mouse surgeries that are several hours long. I've been looking into feedback-controlled thermoregulator units, but they are quite expensive (~ $2,000). I'm interested in whether there are safe & effective alternatives that are more affordable.
Thanks!
Hi! Usual incandescent lamp with reflector can do. Place it such that it is warm enough (but not too much! It is easy to overheat a mouse) for your hands and control rectal temperature of the animal. It is better not to use metallic operating table. I prefer styrofoam to minimise loss of heat. Make 2-3 first operations on mice which are not too precious.
All the best!
Hi Anne, There are chemical warming pads made for rodent surgery that are reusable and last several hours. They are relatively inexpensive. I think Braintree makes them. Also, giving warmed fluids subcutaneously after surgery helps with not only with thermoregulation but helps maintain normovolemia. Good luck.
Hello Ann,
For short duration surgeries (30-40 min), a hot water bottle wrapped in a sterile drape or towel works well. Be sure to test the surface temperature before placing your animal onto it. Over the counter electronic heating pads also work well but be sure you know the temperature range of fluctuation before using. Also, as with the hot water bottle, the electronic heating pad needs to be covered with a towel of some sort.
Good luck!
Here is a temperature controller for $975
https://www.kentscientific.com/products/productView.asp?productID=6465&Mouse_Rat=Far%2Dinfrared&products=RightTemp%26reg%3B+Temperature+Monitor+%26+Homeothermic+Warming+Control+Module
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