CT examination and 3D analysis of Egyptian animal mummies.

Abstract

To report our experience on CT investigation of animal mummies, focusing on the practical and radiological aspects of the study, the acquisition parameters and the different reconstruction techniques. Thirteen mummies underwent CT examination on the same CT scanner (Siemens sensation) with the following acquisition parameters: 120kV; 140mAs; slice thickness: 1mm; reconstruction interval: 0.7mm; and rotation time: 0.75s. All datasets were reconstructed with both bone and soft tissue algorithms and archived on our picture archiving and communication system using their catalogue number as an identifier. Images were then transferred on IntelliSpace Portal (Philips Healthcare) for post-processing multiplanar and 3D reconstructions. The acquired data were submitted to anthropological analysis. CT enabled the identification of the bundles content: four cats with complete skeleton, one upper part of a cat mummy, one lower part of a cat mummy, one cat head with four cervical vertebrae, two crocodiles, two raptors, skeletons from one or more snakes and one mummy with dog appearance, containing long bones. All cats and hawks showed cervical fractures; in one cat, the skull was collapsed inwards, and in another cat, the head was turned backwards; one cat presented a skeleton more radiopaque than normal with evidence of cracks related to the use of the resins for mummification that were poured directly over the corpse. CT is a valuable noninvasive technique to study Egyptian mummies, enabling in-depth analysis while preserving the integrity of the mummy bundles, ensuring protection of a valuable archaeological resource.