Cranial Structure of Varanus komodoensis as Revealed by Computed-Tomographic Imaging.

Sara Pérez,Soraya Déniz,Carlos Melián,Eligia González-Rodríguez,Manuel Morales,José Raduan Jaber,Juan Alberto Corbera,Alberto Arencibia,Mario Encinoso,Alejandro Suárez-Bonnet

doi:10.3390/ani11041078

Sara Pérez, Soraya Déniz + Show 8 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11041078

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Abstract

Simple SummaryWe investigated the head of Komodo dragons using CT imaging. Cross-sections show that all cranial bones can be delineated, while soft tissue structures are evident but not clearly identifiable without an anatomical atlas. Additional three-dimensional reconstructed and maximum intensity projection images of the head were presented to depict bony structures. The anatomical structures identified on the CT images could help further assess the head of the Komodo dragon.This study aimed to describe the anatomic features of the normal head of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) identified by computed tomography. CT images were obtained in two dragons using a helical CT scanner. All sections were displayed with a bone and soft tissue windows setting. Head reconstructed, and maximum intensity projection images were obtained to enhance bony structures. After CT imaging, the images were compared with other studies and reptile anatomy textbooks to facilitate the interpretation of the CT images. Anatomic details of the head of the Komodo dragon were identified according to the CT density characteristics of the different organic tissues. This information is intended to be a useful initial anatomic reference in interpreting clinical CT imaging studies of the head and associated structures in live Komodo dragons.

Highlights

The introduction of imaging diagnostic techniques has revolutionized the knowledge in reptile medicine
The purpose of this study was to describe the normal anatomy of the head of the Varanus komodoensis by computed tomography, and threedimensional head reconstructed images to assist in the understanding of the head and its associated structures
The contribution of imaging techniques to reptile medicine has increased the knowledge in veterinary practice and research [4,5,6,12]

Summary

Introduction

The introduction of imaging diagnostic techniques has revolutionized the knowledge in reptile medicine. The progressive increase in modern imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging has improved diagnostic abilities in reptile medicine and research [2]. These techniques represent an enormous resource that allows for fast, non-invasive anatomy visualizations of internal structures that are challenging to interpret [2]. The contributions of zoo veterinarians, researchers, and specialized technicians (anatomists, radiologists, and wildlife and exotic specialists) working with captive and free-ranging animals to prevent and treat diseases that threaten the survival of species in wildlife conservation have increased [3]. Since 1996, the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) is listed as vulnerable by the Red List of the World Conservation

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