To establish a modified thread embolization method for the establishment of a model of focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in SD rats, to reduce the difficulty of model establishment and improve the stability of the model. Methods: Thirty male SD rats were randomly divided into a model group of 24 and a sham operation group of 6. The modified external carotid artery approach was used to establish the model, and comprehensive evaluations were performed by using neurological function scores, Evans blue (EB) staining, and TTC staining. Results: The successful rate of model establishment was 87.5%, and obvious EB extravasation could be observed in the infarction zone, and the infarction volume accounted for (10.65 ± 4.41)% of the total brain volume according to TTC staining. Conclusion: After modification, the location of ligation of common carotid artery and external carotid artery, as well as the cutting position of external carotid artery were clarified. Direct application of the remaining external carotid artery to establish the model reduced the difficulty of model establishment, improved the stability and increased the success rate of the model.