Comparative evaluation of the cadaveric, radiographic and computed tomographic anatomy of the heads of green iguana (Iguana iguana), common tegu (Tupinambis merianae) and bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps).

BACKGROUND: Radiology and computed tomography are the most commonly available diagnostic tools for the diagnosis of pathologies affecting the head and skull in veterinary practice. Nevertheless, accurate interpretation of radiographic and CT studies requires a thorough knowledge of the gross and the cross-sectional anatomy. Despite the increasing success of reptiles as pets, only a few reports over their normal imaging features are currently available. The aim of this study is to describe the normal cadaveric, radiographic and computed tomographic features of the heads of the green iguana, tegu and bearded dragon. RESULTS: 6 adult green iguanas, 4 tegus, 3 bearded dragons, and, the adult cadavers of: 4 green iguana, 4 tegu, 4 bearded dragon were included in the study. 2 cadavers were dissected following a stratigraphic approach and 2 cadavers were cross-sectioned for each species. These latter specimens were stored in a freezer (-20°C) until completely frozen. Transversal sections at 5 mm intervals were obtained by means of an electric band-saw. Each section was cleaned and photographed on both sides. Radiographs of the head of each subject were obtained. Pre- and post- contrast computed tomographic studies of the head were performed on all the live animals. CT images were displayed in both bone and soft tissue windows. Individual anatomic structures were first recognised and labelled on the anatomic images and then matched on radiographs and CT images. Radiographic and CT images of the skull provided good detail of the bony structures in all species. In CT contrast medium injection enabled good detail of the soft tissues to be obtained in the iguana whereas only the eye was clearly distinguishable from the remaining soft tissues in both the tegu and the bearded dragon. CONCLUSIONS: The results provide an atlas of the normal anatomical and in vivo radiographic and computed tomographic features of the heads of lizards, and this may be useful in interpreting any imaging modality involving these species.

A preliminary investigation of the relationship between the "moment of resistance" of the canine spine, and the frequency of traumatic vertebral lesions at different spinal levels.

The aims of this work were to re-evaluate the moments of resistance (MoRs) of the vertebral column proposed by Slijper (1946) in the dog and to study the relationship between the MoRs and the frequency distribution of vertebral traumas in the same species. The spine (C2-L7) of four dogs was measured to obtain MoRs and subsequently scanned with a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometer (DXA). These findings were then analysed retrospectively the frequency distribution of canine vertebral fractures and luxations, diagnosed radiographically at a referral practice. The highest percentage of vertebral injuries affected the T9-L7 tract. This study confirmed that this segment was characterized by a rising trend of the MoR curves and presumably bore the major bending forces. The significant correlation between T9-L1 MoRs and DXA values supports the Slijper's hypothesis suggesting the posterior thoracic region as the weakest segment of the body-axis.