Ref Code: PIG13

Category

Teaching - 2
Research - 4

Objective

To deliver appropriate solutions for intramuscular absorption.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Demonstration/practice using cadaveric material may be carried out prior to use of live animals.

Details of procedure

Pigs may need to be restrained depending on age and the volume of the injection. The needle should be directed into the pig at an angle perpendicular to the skin surface. A long needle (35mm) is needed to reliably deliver injected material deep into the muscle body of a pig over 10kg in weight. With smaller pigs, shorter needles may be used or the needle may be directed at a more oblique angle. Needle gauge depends on the viscosity of the solution and the thickness of the pig's skin. An 18 gauge needle is usually required in adult pigs.

It is recommended that an IM injection should be made into the muscle on the side of the neck due to the risk of carcase condemnation.

No more than 5mL should be injected into one spot in pigs less than 20kg and no more than 10mL into one spot in larger pigs.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agents

Use only drugs, chemicals or biological agents recommended for intramuscular delivery. The use of chemicals in NSW is controlled by the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966 and the Stock Medicines Act 1989.

Take care that sterile solutions remain sterile during delivery.

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animal(s)

The procedure is well tolerated. Low impact, associated with restraint.

A variable degree of pain may be caused depending on the nature of the injection. Non-irritant materials (e.g. saline) should be used if the procedure is being conducted purely for teaching purposes.

Reuse and repeated use

Animals should not be reused except in the course of normal husbandry.

No more than two injections should be administered per animal per day.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Nil

Pain relief measures

Nil

Qualifications, experience skills or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator

Must be competent in the correct techniques and familiar with the anatomy of the region.

Students

Basic understanding of anatomy, familiarity with technique by using cadaveric material.