FAQS
You Asked, We Answered
Looking for more info about one of our products, services or a pending order?
Check out our list of frequently asked questions below for some quick answers. If you can’t find the answer, get in touch.
What are Single Cannula Infusion System Components?
Click on the link below to learn more!
How do I sterilize components onsite?
Acceptable sterilization methods:
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Guides, osmotic pump, and injector cannulas (peek/ss)- can be steam autoclaved(max temp. 250 ℉)
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Single dummy cannulas & dust caps can be steam autoclaved (1 cycle only-max temp. 250 ℉) **may swell slightly due to water absorption** Recommended method-dry heat (max temp. 250 ℉) or ethylene oxide
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Bilateral dummy cannulas- can be steam autoclaved (max temp. 250 ℉)
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Osmotic pump guide cannulas-cannot be steam autoclaved. Recommended method is ethylene oxide
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Backmounts- recommended ethylene oxide and dry heat. Can be steam autoclaved (1 cycle only-max temp 250 ℉)
How can I prevent my rats from taking off their dummy cannulas?
Dummy cannulas are removed due to the natural grooming patterns of rodents. Counter clockwise grooming unscrews the dummy cannula making it easier for the animal to remove. After performing the implantation surgery, applying a bitter or spicy taste to the dummy can deter the animal from playing with the cannula. Another option is to screw a nut onto the guide to increase resistance.
Can a dental cement headcap be removed with acetone?
It is possible to dissolve dental cement with acetone, although it may damage materials used to make cannulas and electrodes. While P1 Technologies does not condone reusing components after the initial surgery, we understand that some researchers choose to do so. Any components recovered from animals should be thoroughly inspected for damage. P1 Technologies guarantees all components from defects for one time use.
What is the difference in the acute guide and standard guide cannula?
Acute guides have a recessed top for direct injection with syringe which allows easier insertion, while the standard cannula is made to be used with an injector cannula.
Can I implant intracranial electrodes in neonatal mice without drilling into the skull and damaging the brain?
Most likely no. Without drilling into the skull there isn't a good way to secure the electrode.
What is the smallest diameter electrode you produce? What if I want something else?
We carry a variety of wire sizes for our electrode lines. In stainless steel, our smallest wire diameter is 0.005”. In platinum, our smallest wire diameter is 0.003”. If you need a different size or wire material, please give us a call. We can supply many other types of wire or you can supply your own material to us. The P1 Technologies electrode line is customizable to suit your requirements.
What cannula should I use for ICV injection into the lateral ventricle?
It depends on the parameters of your study. For instance, a mouse is fairly small, so we would recommend a smaller gauge cannula system than for someone using a rat. To determine which components will work best for you, we recommend that you consider these factors:
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Animal
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Duration of Study
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Area of Study
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Substance for Injection
When choosing a cannula system, the researcher should consider all of these factors and choose the system that creates the smallest damage profile while allowing for adequate substance flow. Headcap size should also be considered, as larger cannulas can create weight issues on the animal or space issues inside the home cage.
Do you sell fiber optics?
P1 Technologies is proud to offer mating components used when doing optogenetics, but we do not currently carry fibers. We recommend contacting Thor Labs for your fiber needs.
How can you secure the optic fiber to the optic fiber housing?
You can use an epoxy which will give the optic fiber housing a stronger bond or super glue which is a more affordable option.
Do you sell fiber optic patch cables?
While we do carry components for working with fiber optics in animals, we do not carry the cables themselves or the swivels. We recommend you contact Doric Lenses or Thor Labs for these needs.
Do you have MRI compatible components?
We are proud to offer a selection of components made entirely of MRI compatible materials. We currently have single guide systems, osmotic pump connectors, and backmounts made with PEEK, Teflon or fused silica glass. We also carry a line of MRI compatible electrodes to fit your needs. If what you need is not immediately available, we will be glad to work with you to find a solution that works for you.
Can you make a double guide and its mating components in MRI compatible material such as PEEK?
As long as there are no dimensional limitations we can handle most requests for customization.