Maximizing signal and charging performance
All Kaha rat telemeters are designed to have the body of the telemeter secured inside the abdominal cavity, using the suture tabs. For best charging performance, the telemeter must be implanted within the abdomen so that it is parallel with the SmartPad. The antenna is on the same side of the telemeter as the suture tabs so using the suture tabs to attach the telemeter to the ventral wall of the abdomen will give the best possible signal transmission range.
The pressure catheter can then be inserted into the abdominal aorta for arterial pressure measurement or tunneled to the recording site. Lead wires for biopotential, sympathetic nerve activity or tissue oxygen measurements should also be tunneled subcutaneously to the recording site, with the telemeter body implanted in the abdominal cavity. Any electrode leads or catheters that exit the abdominal cavity should do so between two sutures and never at the end of the incision.
Suggested telemeter positions for different pressure recording sites
Before implantation, it is important to consider how the telemeter will be positioned in the abdomen at the end of surgery. This is particularly important when using telemeters with pressure catheters as it is important to avoid any twisting or sharp bends in the catheter(s). The diagrams below show suggested telemeter positions for arterial pressure (BP), left ventricular pressure (LVP), both signals using a dual pressure telemeter or in the case of implanting two telemeters in a large rat using the Kaha Cohousing mode.
Securing the telemeter using the suture tabs
To prevent movement of the telemeter and stress on the catheters or electrode wires, it is important that the body of the telemeter is secured to the muscle of the abdominal wall. Telemeters are fitted with two suture tabs and these along with non-absorbable sutures (e.g. silk) should be used to secure the telemeter in place. Care should be taken not to damage the pressure catheter or electrode wires or to pierce the silicone body of the telemeter (if applicable). Telemeters should never be held in place using sutures around the pressure catheters or electrodes as this causes stress points and wire breakages.
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