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Optimizing the Lymphedema Murine Tail Model
Colby R. Neumann, Imran Khan, Chandan K. Sen, Mithun Sinha, Aladdin H. Hassanein
Indiana University School of Medicine
2020-02-14
Presenter: Colby Neumann
Affidavit:
The work was primarily done by Colby Neumann towards this model. I have supervised Mr. Neumann in optimizing this model
Director Name: Aladdin H. Hassanein
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Basic Science Research
Abstract Category: General Reconstruction
Optimizing the Lymphedema Murine Tail Model
Colby R. Neumann, Imran Khan, Chandan K. Sen, Mithun Sinha, Aladdin H. Hassanein
Division of Plastic Surgery, Indiana University
BACKGROUND: Lymphedema is limb enlargement from fluid deposition, adipose, and fibrosis caused by lymphatic dysfunction. The mouse tail model is most frequently used to study lymphedema. Tail swelling from venous congestion can hinder validity of the model and cause tail necrosis. The purpose of this study is to enhance the applicability and efficiency of the murine tail lymphedema model.
METHODS: Mice underwent 3 mm full thickness skin excision 20 mm from the base of the tail using a surgical microscope. The primary lymphatic channels were visualized by isosulfan blue and clipped. Lymphatic function was assessed with indocyanine green (ICG) near-infrared lymphangiography and laser speckle perfusion (LSP) was used for vascular evaluation. Truncated-cone volume measurements were performed.
RESULTS: Thirty-seven mice underwent the procedure resulting in tail swelling. LSP exhibited tail vein and artery patency; ICG lymphangiography showed lymphatic disruption at the surgical site. Lymphedema persisted for 90 days postoperatively. Mouse tail volumes increased 387.7 +/- 86.5 cu mm from by postoperative day 33 followed by a steady resolution to 179.0 +/- 28.9 cu mm.
CONCLUSIONS: Adoption of LSP imaging confirms arterial and venous patency minimizing tail necrosis in the murine tail model. Concomitant ICG lymphangiography optimizes validity by ensuring swelling from lymphatic etiology. These modalities enhance the validity of the established mouse tail model for translational lymphedema research.
