CPT® Code 87003

1. Indications

The procedure is indicated for the study of infectious diseases in small animals. It is performed to observe the effects of specific infections and to gather data that can contribute to the understanding of disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic approaches.

• Infectious Disease Research This procedure is utilized to investigate the effects of various infections on small animal models, providing insights into disease progression and pathology.

2. Procedure

The procedure begins with the selection of a small animal, which is then inoculated with infected tissue. This inoculation is performed using a sterile technique to ensure the integrity of the sample and the safety of the animal. Following the inoculation, the animal is placed under observation for a specified period. During this observation phase, researchers monitor the animal for any signs of infection, changes in behavior, or physiological responses that may indicate the progression of the disease. After the observation period, the animal is euthanized in accordance with ethical guidelines, and a dissection is performed. The dissection allows researchers to examine the internal organs and tissues for pathological changes caused by the infection, providing critical data for further analysis and understanding of the disease.

• Step 1: Inoculation The small animal is inoculated with infected tissue using sterile techniques to ensure accurate results.
• Step 2: Observation The animal is observed for a designated period to monitor for signs of infection and physiological changes.
• Step 3: Dissection After the observation period, the animal is euthanized, and a dissection is performed to study the internal effects of the infection.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves the ethical treatment of the animal prior to euthanasia, ensuring that all guidelines for humane treatment are followed. Following dissection, the collected data and tissue samples are analyzed to draw conclusions about the effects of the infection. Researchers may also document their findings to contribute to the broader scientific understanding of infectious diseases. It is essential to adhere to all regulatory and ethical standards throughout the process to ensure compliance and integrity in research practices.