Simple and efficient rat model for studying delayed cerebral ischemia after subarachnoid hemorrhage.

•Rat models for SAH-induced DCI studies are lacking.•Complete exposure of the atlanto-occipital membrane or burr hole is avoided in our SAH model.•Our model with many merits including lower mortality, reduced operative trauma, shorter procedure time and minimized learning curve.•Pearl-string-like microvascular spasm was visualized in vivo in our SAH model.•Reduced cerebral blood flow was observed in our model by MR PWI.