Modeling Brain Tumor Metastasis via Internal Carotid Artery Injection of Cancer Cells

Begin with an anesthetized mouse with an exposed common carotid artery or CCA.

The CCA bifurcates into the external carotid artery, or ECA, supplying blood to the face, and the internal carotid artery, or ICA, supplying blood to the brain.

First, place a suture around the ECA and tighten it.

Then, add a tight suture on the CCA below the injection site to block blood flow.

Insert a moist paper strip under the CCA for support.

Place a loose knot above the injection site, then inject cancer cells into the CCA.

Due to the sutured ECA, the cells travel to the ICA to reach the brain.

After injection, remove the needle and tighten the distal knot of the CCA to prevent backflow.

Finally, Trim the sutures, remove the strip, rinse with saline, and close the wound.

Over time, the migrated cancer cells propagate and develop tumors in the brain.

Position fine forceps under the external carotid artery and pass a 5-0 silk suture under the artery. Knot and tighten the suture and cut excess line. Position fine forceps under the common carotid artery and pass a 5-0 silk suture under the artery.

Tie a knot and tighten the suture at a position proximal to the proposed injection site. Cut the excess sut