Introduction

Small animal models are indispensable in cardiovascular research. This scoping review aims to provide an overview of contemporary rat models for extracorporeal life support (ECLS) after global ischaemia.

Material and methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and Embase to identify studies involving rat models of global ischaemia followed by ECLS from January 2000 to December 2024. Title and abstracts were screened by two independent reviewers, and the remaining full text was included in predefined data extraction forms.

Results

A total of 79 studies met the inclusion criteria. Male Sprague Dawley rats were predominantly used (82%), with limited reporting on animal age and inconsistent use of analgesia. The majority of studies employed ECLS configurations with roller pumps (71%), custom-made oxygenators (41%), venous drainage via the jugular vein (96%) and arterial inflow via the femoral (53%) or caudal (35%) artery. Three distinct clinical scenarios were identified: extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (41%), emergency preservation and resuscitation (13%), and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (47%). Substantial methodological heterogeneity was observed across models, particularly in ischaemia induction, ECLS protocols, outcome measures, and reporting standards.

Conclusion

Rat models are increasingly used in ECLS research and offer valuable opportunities for investigating pathophysiological mechanisms and advantages for translational studies. To utilize their full potential, improved standardization and adherence to existing guidelines are needed to enhance their reproducibility and clinical relevance.