title: An improved method for recording blood pressure in the tethered monkey.
abstract: Existing tethering systems intended for continuous recording of blood pressure incur two major problems: 1) vertical movements of the animal in the cage produce a significant error in measured pressure introduced by the change in distance between the pressure transducer and the highest point of the infusion system and 2) the necessity for repeated zero adjustment of the pressure transducer requires sedation of the animal and disconnection of the catheter. Continuous infusion and a one-way valve in the infusion line in proximity to the pressure transducer will eliminate the error of measurement related to vertical movement of the animal. A remotely controlled, two-way solenoid valve can close the catheter line and open the pressure transducer to atmospheric pressure, thereby permitting repeated zero adjustment without sedation of the animal and disconnection of the catheter. Eliminating the need to disconnect the catheter will significantly reduce the risk of adventitious infection.
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Behavioral Sciences, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland 21224.
authors.forename: M I
authors.initials: MI
authors.lastname: Talan
authors.forename: B T
authors.initials: BT
authors.lastname: Engel
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001795:Blood Pressure Determination / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D002138:Calibration; D000882:Haplorhini; D007260:Infusion Pumps; D011187:Posture; D012149:Restraint, Physical