A transport and monitoring unit for piglets under general anaesthesia

Abstract

A transport and monitoring unit for fully anaesthetized piglets (weight 20-30 kg) was made. The unit provided easy transport for short or longer distances while at the same time making continuous monitoring of invasive blood pressure (IBP), temperature and HR possible. The animals stayed in the unit for the duration of the experiments which required that the anaesthetized animal be kept in exactly the same position for several hours. This, as well as the experimental animal's welfare, was ensured by the unit. Such a unit can be used for any lengthy transportation of experimental animals to research facilities located separately from animal laboratories.