On which side of a rodent should intraperitoneal injections be administered to avoid the cecum?

On which side of a rodent should intraperitoneal injections be administered to avoid the cecum?

• A. Left side to avoid the Cecum
• B. Right side
• C. Midline
• D. Posterior flank

Answer: (A)

In rodents, knowing where the abdominal organs sit helps prevent injury during intraperitoneal injections. The cecum is a large pouch that mainly occupies the right side of the abdomen, so delivering the injection from the left lower quadrant keeps the needle away from this organ and reduces the risk of puncture or contamination of the peritoneal cavity. This left-side site is the safer route for obtaining access to the peritoneal space in mice and rats. Approaches from the right side, midline, or posterior flank bring you closer to the cecum or other bowel loops, increasing the chance of hitting an internal structure.

In rodents, knowing where the abdominal organs sit helps prevent injury during intraperitoneal injections. The cecum is a large pouch that mainly occupies the right side of the abdomen, so delivering the injection from the left lower quadrant keeps the needle away from this organ and reduces the risk of puncture or contamination of the peritoneal cavity. This left-side site is the safer route for obtaining access to the peritoneal space in mice and rats. Approaches from the right side, midline, or posterior flank bring you closer to the cecum or other bowel loops, increasing the chance of hitting an internal structure.