Practical arterial atlas of the pig for neurointerventional simulation.

Abstract

This article presents a practical anatomical atlas of the arterial neuroanatomy of the swine, intended for training and research in neurointerventional surgery. The swine is a well-established large-animal model due to its anatomical similarities with humans. The atlas begins with a concise overview of the femoroiliac arterial tree and the aorta, followed by a focused description of the common carotid and subclavian arteries, and finally the cephalic arteries-both intracranial and extracranial. Average lengths and diameters of the cephalic arterial segments in pigs (30-80 kg) were retrospectively determined from 3D rotational angiographies acquired in five animals previously used in experimental studies. Anatomical descriptions are supported by schematic diagrams and volume rendering reconstructions. This reference tool is designed to standardize anatomical understanding, enhance the effective use of the pig model, and minimize animal distress in experimental procedures. It serves as a valuable resource for practitioners in neurointerventional surgery.