citation_inspection: 114

Procedures under a traumatic brain injury study were conducted on August 26th, 2022 and August 31, 2022. One study rabbit was euthanized after demonstrating significant neurological deficits. The necropsy revealed an abscess at the incision site. On September 5, 2022, a veterinary resident noticed dehiscence of the incision for another study rabbit. A RAR veterinarian identified another study rabbit with an infection at the incision site. All three rabbits were euthanized. Upon further investigation by the veterinary staff, it was determined that the research staff was not appropriately following the established aseptic procedures during the surgeries. An IACUC investigation cited inadequate aseptic technique, inadequate postsurgical monitoring, and not following the established humane endpoint parameters. Handling of all animals shall be done as carefully as possible in a manner that does not cause trauma or physical harm. The research facility did not ensure research staff performed procedures in accordance with the protocol and facility policies. The research facility must ensure research staff have knowledge of and follow all facility policies and procedures for conducting research so that study animals are handled in a manner that prevents physical harm or distress. An appropriate corrective action plan was implemented that included retraining, veterinary oversight, and a new location for performing the surgery. This inspection and exit interview were conducted with facility representatives and the IO. This inspection was conducted 12/06/2022 to 12/09/2022. Additional Inspectors: JESSICA GOWINS, VETERINARY MEDICAL OFFICER n