Experimental design for MCAO rats and pathological results in rats.

(A) The operation of the MCAO model. The right CCA, ICA, and ECA were exposed and isolated. The CCA and ECA were ligated 5 mm from the bifurcation of the ECA and ICA and at the end of the CCA, respectively, and the preloaded suture was pulled to obstruct the ICA blood flow. A small incision was then made at the bifurcation of the ICA and CCA and the monofilament was inserted. The suture was loosened and advanced approximately 18–20 mm until resistance occurred, then the ICA was ligated, leaving the suture in place to prevent the monofilament from falling out. After 90 min post ischemia, the monofilament was gently removed from the ICA to perform reperfusion. (B) Design of the animal experiment. After the MCAO model was established, the Ctrl, Sham, and Model groups were fed with purified water, and SHD was administered with SHD for 10 consecutive days. On day 11, samples were taken after euthanasia. (C) TTC-stained sections of brain tissue and percentage of cerebral infarct area from the four groups of rats (**** P < 0.0001). (D) HE staining of brain tissues (200×). Abbreviations: MCAO, middle cerebral artery occlusion; CCA, common carotid artery; ICA, internal carotid artery; ECA, external carotid artery.