Rodent thymectomy is a valuable technique in immunological research. Here, a protocol for complete thymectomy in adult rats using a mini-sternotomy along with non-invasive intubation and positive pressure ventilation to minimize perioperative morbidity and mortality is described.
Rendell, V. R., Giamberardino, C., Li, J., Markert, M. L., Brennan, T. V. Complete Thymectomy in Adult Rats with Non-invasive Endotracheal Intubation. J. Vis. Exp. (94), e52152, doi:10.3791/52152 (2014).