Description
The length of the tip should be chosen according to the age of the mouse and the volume of blood needed.
Lengths of spikes for mice:
- 3 mm – only for 1 or 2 drops
- 4 mm – under 2 months
- 5 mm – 2 to 6 months
- 5.5 mm – over 6 months
For rats:
- 5.5 mm – 6 mm Under 3 months
- 6 mm – 7 mm – 3 to 4 months
- 7 mm or 8 mm – over 5 months
Unanesthetized rats can be manually immobilized to access the desired vessel. A hind leg is isolated and a blade is used to remove the hair above the pot. A small amount of Puralube ointment is applied topically before puncturing the vein with the Lancet. Puralube ointment allows the drop of blood to remain localized and away from the skin and hair of the leg. Approximately 4 to 5 drops of whole blood (~100 µl) can be collected directly into a collection tube, prior to sample analysis. Blood flow can be stopped at any time by applying a compress to the site for a few moments.
