Abstract: Objective To explore a simple and reliable method for intraperitoneal injection through a paravertebral approach in
rabbits. Methods Sixty New Zealand rabbits were randomized into conventional group and modified groups to receive
intraperitoneal injections through conventional and paravertebral approaches, respectively. In the conventional group, the
injection site was on the abdominal wall 3~4 cm lateral from the umbilicus bilaterally, while that in the modified group was
located dorsally at L5/L6 level 3-4 cm lateral from the midline. Abdominal CT scan was performed in the post-injection rabbits,
which were sacrificed after 24 h for abdominal dissection. Results Success with a single puncture was achieved in 13 out of the
20 rabbits in the conventional group, and the rest required at least two punctures, with a mean rank sum of 23.50. With the
modified approach, a single attempt was successful in all the 40 rabbits, with a mean rank sum of 34.0, showing a significant
difference between the two groups (P<0.01). The success rates of a single injection differed significantly between the two
groups (P<0.01). CT scan and abdominal dissection showed that the injection site with the modified approach was far away
from the vital organs and large vessels with less peritoneal hyperemia and exudation. Conclusion Paravertebral
intraperitoneal paracentesis is a convenient and reliable method for intraperitoneal injection in rabbits.