Implantation of Cranial Imaging Window in Mouse Model: A Surgical Procedure to Implant Glass-based Coverslip for Stable Optical Access to Regions of Murine Brain

Cranial window implantation is a surgical procedure wherein an exposed region of the brain is sealed with a coverslip. The implanted imaging window facilitates access to the brain for long-term high resolution in vivo imaging.  

To begin, stabilize an anesthetized mouse in a stereotactic unit.

Maintain its body temperature using a heating pad.

Next, shave the mouse’s scalp and sterilize the exposed skin.

Make a circular incision and scrape off the underlying periosteum - a fibrous connective tissue layer - from the skull surface.

Subsequently, apply a suitable vasoconstrictor and an anesthetic solution over the surgical area to minimize bleeding in the following steps. 

Secure the skin edges to the skull with cyanoacrylate glue.

Then, under a dissection microscope, visualize the skull.

Drill a shallow groove over the region of interest until the bone flap becomes loose. Treat the groove with cortex buffer to prevent tissue dehydration.

Gently lift the bone flap, creating a bone window to access the brain underneath. 

Now, remove the outermost membrane layer surrounding the brain - the dura mater. Clear the buffer and apply silicone oil to prevent air bubbles under the window.

Mount a coverslip over the exposed area using glue, ensuring minimal distance between the brain and the coverslip. 

The mouse with the implanted cranial window is ready for brain imaging.