An experimental model of focal ischemia using an internal carotid artery approach

▶ We developed a novel modified technique for middle cerebral artery occlusion without ligation or coagulation of the external carotid artery and its branches using an approach via the internal carotid artery. ▶ The new modified technique for stroke, resulted in lower variability of infarct volume, increased weight gain after stroke, and decreased mortality. ▶ The use of the silicone-coated thread led to larger infarct volume, presumably as a result of better fitting to the artery walls and ability to occlude all the branches supplying collateral circulation irrespective of anatomical variability.