RWD 68208 Dual-Cannula Holder for Stereotaxic Surgery
| Brand | RWD |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shenzhen, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | 68208 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The RWD 68208 Dual-Cannula Holder is a precision-engineered accessory designed exclusively for use with RWD’s dual-cannula stereotaxic implantation systems introduced in early 2014. It functions as a rigid vertical mounting interface that attaches directly to the X–Z two-axis manipulator arm of RWD stereotaxic frames (e.g., models 68015, 68020). Its primary purpose is to secure and align dual-guide cannulas—specifically those featuring a 5.0 mm outer diameter (OD) polymeric base sleeve—during neurosurgical procedures in rodent models. The holder ensures mechanical stability, axial alignment, and reproducible insertion depth control, minimizing lateral deviation and micro-movement during craniotomy and cannula implantation. It operates on a passive clamping principle, relying on precisely machined internal geometry rather than adjustable torque mechanisms, thereby eliminating operator-induced variability in grip force.
Key Features
- Optimized compatibility with RWD dual-cannula systems featuring 5.0 mm OD plastic base sleeves—ensures concentricity and prevents torsional misalignment during insertion.
- Direct-mount design interfaces seamlessly with standard RWD X–Z manipulator arms via standardized dovetail or threaded adapter plates (included with frame purchase).
- Fixed-geometry clamping mechanism eliminates calibration drift; no user-adjustable screws or springs that may loosen over repeated sterilization cycles.
- Autoclavable construction: housing and clamping surfaces are fabricated from medical-grade stainless steel (AISI 316L) and high-temperature resistant PEEK polymer—validated for ≥20 cycles at 134 °C, 2 bar saturated steam.
- Low-profile form factor minimizes obstruction of surgical field visibility and allows unimpeded access for microinjection syringes or optical fibers post-implantation.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 68208 holder is validated for use with dual-cannula assemblies incorporating two parallel 26–33 gauge stainless-steel guide tubes mounted within a single molded thermoplastic base (e.g., polyetherimide or PEEK). It does not accommodate single-cannula configurations or base sleeves with OD outside the 4.95–5.05 mm tolerance band. For 3.5 mm OD dual-cannula systems, RWD recommends model 68205 (metal-clamp variant) or 68217 (polymer-clamp variant), selected based on thermal compatibility requirements during autoclaving and long-term implant stability assessment protocols. The device conforms to ISO 13485:2016 design control requirements for Class I non-sterile surgical accessories and supports GLP-compliant preclinical study documentation per OECD Series on Testing and Assessment No. 116.
Software & Data Management
As a purely mechanical positioning accessory, the 68208 holder requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. However, it is fully compatible with RWD’s digital stereotaxic planning suite (StereoDrive v3.2+), which enables coordinate-based trajectory simulation for dual-cannula targeting across bregma-lambda referenced atlases (e.g., Paxinos & Watson, 7th ed.). When used in conjunction with RWD’s motorized manipulators (e.g., 68030 series), positional data—including holder engagement status and Z-axis depth lock confirmation—is logged automatically into audit-trail-enabled experiment records compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements.
Applications
- Chronic bilateral intracerebral infusion studies requiring simultaneous delivery of distinct pharmacologic agents into homologous brain regions (e.g., striatum, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex).
- Combined optogenetic stimulation and electrophysiological recording using dual-shank optrodes integrated with microelectrode arrays.
- Longitudinal behavioral neuroscience paradigms involving repeated microinjections over ≥4-week periods, where mechanical stability of the cannula base directly impacts tissue integrity and data reproducibility.
- Validation of novel drug delivery vectors (e.g., AAV serotypes, lipid nanoparticles) in transgenic mouse models of neurodegeneration.
FAQ
Is the 68208 holder compatible with non-RWD stereotaxic frames?
No—it is mechanically engineered for direct integration with RWD X–Z manipulator arms only. Adapters for other brands are not available or validated.
Can the holder be used with single-cannula implants?
No. Its internal geometry is dimensionally optimized for dual-cannula base sleeves with 5.0 mm OD. Use of single-cannula configurations may result in insufficient clamping force and axial slippage.
What sterilization methods are validated?
Steam autoclaving (134 °C, 2 bar, 5 min exposure) is the only validated method. Ethylene oxide or gamma irradiation is not recommended due to potential polymer embrittlement.
Does the holder include depth-stop functionality?
No. Depth control is achieved externally via the manipulator’s calibrated Z-axis scale or optional digital encoder module (sold separately).
How often should wear inspection be performed?
Visual and tactile inspection for clamp surface scoring or base sleeve deformation is required before each use; full metrological verification (OD/ID measurement) is recommended every 50 implantation cycles.
