Use of Three-Dimensional Imaging Reconstruction Software as a Training Tool for Cranial Vena Cava Venipuncture in the Ferret

[Instructor] Use of a three-dimensional imaging reconstruction software as a training tool for cranial vena cava venipuncture in the ferret. The protocol for the use of ferrets in this study was approved by the University of Georgia Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. All the ferrets included in this video were sedated for venipuncture. Venipuncture is a mainstay practice in lab animal medicine. In the Fara, one of the more common sites for large volume blood collection is the cranial vena cava. Though an overall relatively safe approach, this technique requires extensive training and knowledge of thoracic anatomy in order to master. We suggest that a three-dimensional virtual anatomy reconstructive software may serve as a beneficial training tool in helping learn how to complete this approach. Specifically, this software reconstructs MRI and CT scans and took three-dimensional scans. The user is able to learn from this platform and interact with several features embedded within the program. The program is operated through a standard computer keyboard and mouse. Once the program is open with this selected desired scan, add a plane to the scan. Using the mouse scroll wheel, advance the plane from superficial to deep until you view the cranial vena cava. Take a screenshot or screen record all of these steps, as was done in this video. Show the images and videos to a group of trainees and provide verbal instruction from an experienced lab animal veterinarian. Provide any supplemental materials as you see fit and listen carefully for questions. Describe the procedure in depth prior to them attempting it on their own. Place the ferret in dorsal recumbent with the head and neck extended. Usually, at least one assistant is needed to properly restrain the animal. Ferrets can be awake, sedated, or anesthetized for the procedure. Disinfect the area of the manubrium with alcohol. Palpate the sternum. Feel for the notch between the manubrium and the first rib on the animal's right side. Insert the needle at the level of this notch, angling it 30 to 45 degrees and directing it towards the opposite hip. Insert at the side of the notch and aspirate to draw blood. Evaluate and record the trainee's success in accomplishing the vertical angle of the needle, the horizontal angle of the needle, and palpation of the manubrium. Document how many trainees successfully collected blood, along with the volume of blood collected. Images and videos from this three-dimensional platform clearly depict the ferret thoracic anatomy, including the cranial vena cava. In the present manuscript, success of the approach was evaluated based on the trainees' ability to correctly angle the needle and syringe, insert the needle at the appropriate location, and collect blood from the site. Of the five trainees, 100% mastered the vertical angle of the needle, 80% mastered the horizontal angle of the needle, 100% correctly identified the manubrium as a landmark for insertion, and 40% successfully collected blood within two attempts of using this approach. In the present study, trainees were largely successful in demonstrating the skills necessary to complete cranial vena cava vena puncture in the ferret. We believe that incorporating the three-dimensional images and videos into instruction helped trainees accomplish the many skills needed for this venipuncture technique.