2022 Refinement Grant: 3D-printed mouse tail models for intravenous injection training

To perform i.v. injections on mice reliably, extensive training is required. This is usually performed on live animals.
For the first steps of training (handling of syringes and the tail), our 3D-printed mouse tail models can be useful placeholders instead of using live animals. Conception, prototyping and first testing of 3D-printed mouse tail models is already accomplished. Tail models should be manufactured in larger quantities and distributed among researchers / trainers. Detailed user experience data should be collected to optimize the tail models and confirm their usefulness. Publishing this data should increase acceptance and use of the tail models.