Guidelines for Aseptic Recovery Surgery on Regulated Animals

U.S.D.A. regulated, laboratory animals include, but are not limited to, rabbits, dogs, cats, swine, nonhuman primates, hamsters and guinea pigs. Aseptic, recovery surgery of these animals must occur in facilities intended only for that purpose which shall be operated and maintained under aseptic conditions ¹. N.I.H. guideline for major invasive, survival surgery on large laboratory animals... "includes wearing of sterile surgical gloves, caps, gowns and face masks; use of sterile instruments; and aseptic preparation of the surgical field. Major survival surgery is defined as any surgical intervention that penetrates a body cavity or has the potential for producing a permanent handicap in an animal that is expected to recover."²

"Functional areas for aseptic surgery should include a separate surgical support area, a preparation area, the operating room or rooms, and an area for intensive care and supportive treatment of animals. The interior surfaces of this facility should be constructed of materials that are impervious to moisture and easily cleaned. The surgical support area should be designed for storing instruments and supplies for washing and sterilizing instruments. Items that are used on a regular basis, such as anesthetic machines and suture material, can be stored in the operating room."²

"There should be a separate surgical preparation area for animals. An area equipped with surgical sinks should be close to, but apart from, the operating room. A dressing area should be provided for personnel to change into surgical attire."²

"Appropriate facilities and equipment should be available for postsurgical care. Postsurgical care should include observing the animal to ensure uneventful recovery from anesthesia and surgery; administering supportive fluids, analgesics and other drugs as required; providing adequate care for surgical incisions; and maintaining appropriate medical records. Equipment and supply items that can be helpful for intensive care include heating pads, vaporizers, vacuum equipment, respirator, cardiac monitor, and oxygen. Proper monitoring by trained personnel should be provided during recovery."²

¹ USDA Regulations, 9 CFR, Subpart C, Section 2.31, 1-1-92 Edition.
² P.H.S., N.I.H., US Dept. of Health and Human Services, Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, Publication No. 85-23, revised 1985.