Understanding gastrointestinal diseases and drug delivery systems requires accurate, reproducible preclinical models. One such model is rodent intracolonic catheterization, which allows for direct access to the colon for drug administration, microbiota manipulation, or inflammation studies. At Preclinical Research Associates (PRA), we use and support this model due to its precision, consistency, and value in advancing GI-focused research.

What Is Intracolonic Catheterization?

Intracolonic catheterization involves the surgical implantation of a catheter directly into the distal colon of a rodent. The catheter is tunneled subcutaneously and exteriorized for repeated access, making it possible to deliver substances directly into the colon without repeated invasive procedures.

This model provides:

  • Precise, localized drug delivery
  • Minimal systemic exposure
  • Controlled dosing frequency and volume
  • Improved reproducibility across studies

Why Use This Model?

Rodent intracolonic catheterization is used in a variety of research areas:

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Enables controlled induction of colitis and evaluation of targeted therapeutics
  • Microbiome Research: Facilitates direct manipulation of gut microbiota without impacting upper GI tract
  • Formulation Studies: Allows for testing of colon-targeted delivery systems
  • Pain and Sensory Studies: Supports visceral pain models and motility assays

Because the catheter remains in place, researchers can conduct chronic studies without repeated gavage or enema procedures, improving both data quality and animal welfare.

Technical Considerations

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia using sterile technique:

  • Surgical Access: A small midline or flank incision is made to expose the distal colon.
  • Catheter Placement: A medical-grade catheter is inserted into the colon and secured with sutures.
  • Tunneling & Exteriorization: The catheter is tunneled subcutaneously and exteriorized at the dorsal neck or back.
  • Maintenance: Catheters are flushed regularly to maintain patency and reduce clogging or infection.

PRA uses refined surgical techniques and medical-grade materials to ensure consistency and reduce post-operative complications.

The PRA Advantage

When you work with PRA, you benefit from:

✅ Highly experienced surgical teams with GI model expertise
✅ Onsite surgical services and training options
✅ Support with protocol design and catheter maintenance
✅ Scalable solutions for single or large-cohort studies
✅ A strong focus on animal welfare and model refinement

We bring the procedure, equipment, and expertise directly to your facility, ensuring seamless integration into your research workflow.
Preclinical Research AssociatesWe ship the surgeon, not the animal.www.prasurgical.com

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