Introduction of a Simple and Minimally Invasive Approach for Access to Epidural Space in Cat

Background: Although various studied have been done to improve therapeutic strategies in resolving spinal cord injuries, robust clinical treatment is not yet available. Developing a standard animal model is essential to achieve effective treatment for such injuries. The present study was performed to introduce a simple, applicable, and minimally invasive approach for access to epidural space in cats. Methods: We used a percutaneous approach from the lumbosacral junction for stainless steel cannula insertion to the epidural space without fluoroscopy. CT scan, conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), tractography, and behavioral evaluation were used to assess the correct position of the cannula and the neurological condition of the animal. Results: MRI results showed no significant change in signal intensity index of neural structures under lumbosacral junction. These observations are further supported by tractography, and also behavioral examination during the study. Conclusion: We found that the percutaneous approach from the lumbosacral junction is a simple and applicable approach that has no side effects and artifact formation in MRI evaluation.