Normal Cross-sectional Anatomy Research Articles

Large airway diseases in pediatrics: a pictorial essay.

“Large airway diseases” is being used as an all-encompassing phrase to describe a broad spectrum of pathological entities, which involves the trachea, main, lobar, and segmental bronchi of up to 3 mm diameter. Imaging modalities such as radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging contribute to the identification and diagnosis of each entity. Knowledge of clinical information, normal cross-sectional anatomy, and imaging characteristics of large airway diseases is necessary for appropriate radiologic evaluation. This review provides information about congenital and acquired diseases of the large airways in the pediatric population.

Normal cross-sectional anatomy and magnetic resonance imaging of pastern and coffin joints in camel

The present study aimed to describe the normal cross sectional anatomy and magnetic resonance imaging of pastern and coffin joints in dromedary camel. This study was conducted on twelve distal limbs (fore and hind) of fresh cadavers from three adult camels of both sexes. The specimens appeared normal without orthopedic disorders. Twelve distal limbs were scanned using a 1 Tesla MRI scanner and then injected with colored latex to be sectioned into sagittal, dorsal and transverse slices. Cross anatomical sections were matched with their corresponding MR images for identification and evaluation of the clinically relevant anatomical structures that appeared with different signal intensities on MRI scans. The present study showed that all major soft tissues in pastern and coffin joints of camel were clearly depicted on MR images, however, the palmar/plantar ligaments of pastern joint and ligaments of navicular cartilage could not be identified on MR images. The annotated cross anatomical sections with the corresponding MR images could be used as a normal reference for interpretation of some clinical diseases in pastern and coffin joints of camel.

Cross-sectional anatomy, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography of fetlock joint in camel

The current study aimed to describe the normal cross-sectional anatomy, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography of the fetlock joint in adult healthy dromedary camel. This study was carried out on twelve fetlock joints of the fresh cadavers from three camels. The gross examination of these camels revealed that they were normal with no orthopedic abnormalities. The cadaveric fetlock joints (n=12) were scanned using a computed tomographic (CT) scanner and a 1 Tesla MRI scanner. Then the joints were injected with a colored latex and sectioned into transverse, dorsal, and sagittal slices. Cross-anatomical sections were correlated with their corresponding CT and MR images for evaluation of the normal relevant anatomical structures that appeared with different signal intensities on the CT and MRI scans. The current investigation revealed that all the major soft tissue structures in the fetlock joint of the dromedary camel were clearly visualized on both CT and MR scans, except the short and the cruciate sesamoidean ligaments that could not be identified on both the CT and MR images. The anatomical sections with their corresponding CT and MR images obtained in this study could be used as a reference for subsequent clinical diagnosis and the interpretation of fetlock joint pathologies in dromedary camel.

Computed tomography of the thorax in rabbits: a prospective study in ten clinically healthy New Zealand White rabbits

BackgroundLiterature investigating the normal cross-sectional anatomy of rabbits with computed tomography (CT) is sparse and incomplete. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the normal thoracic structures, in particular the cranial thorax, with CT angiography in 10 clinically healthy New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits.ResultsAbsolute and relative measurements of the trachea, heart, thoracic caudal vena cava and aorta, right and left principal bronchi, right and left caudal lobar bronchi and the accompanying branches of the right and left pulmonary artery and vein, right and left lung volume and lung density were taken. The three lobes of the thymus (right ventral, right dorsal and left thoracic lobes) were identified in all rabbits. Both the right dorsal and left thoracic lobes of the thymus extended between the heart and thoracic wall in all individuals with the left lobe reaching more caudally in seven animals. Consequently, the craniocaudal extension of the left lung was smaller than the right lung in these rabbits. Volume of the left lung was significantly smaller than the right (P = 0.005). The cranial mediastinal, right and left tracheobronchial and the aortic thoracic lymph nodes were very small and identified in four, four, seven and ten rabbits, respectively. The heart took up a median of 4.0 intercostal spaces, and in seven rabbits, it was located in the 2nd–5th intercostal space. Median relative cardiac height and width measured 74 and 88%, respectively. The median angle of the trachea to the spine was 5°. Median density between the right and left lung did not significantly differ (− 549 and − 583 Hounsfield units, respectively). In all but one rabbit, atelectasis was present and classified as mild, moderate or severe in six, two and one individuals, respectively. Mild subclinical bronchopneumonia was diagnosed in seven rabbits.ConclusionsThe present study provides species-specific anatomical CT information and reference values for structures in the thorax of the NZW rabbit. Subclinical bronchopneumonia appears to be a common CT finding.

MRI cross sectional atlas of normal canine cervical musculoskeletal structure

Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been increasingly used as a diagnostic tool for cervical spine injuries in canines, a comprehensive normal MRI anatomy of the canine cervical spine muscles is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to build a magnetic resonance imaging atlas of the normal cross sectional anatomy of the muscles of the canine cervical spine. MRI scans were performed on a canine cadaver using a combination of T1 and T2-weighted images in the transverse, sagittal and dorsal planes acquired at a slice thickness of 1mm. Muscle contours were traced manually in each slice, using local osseous structures as reference points for muscle identification. Twenty-two muscles were traced in 401 slices in the cervical region. A three dimensional surface model of all the contoured muscles was created to illustrate the complex geometrical arrangement of canine neck muscles. The cross-sectional area of the muscles was measured at the mid-level of each vertebra. The accuracy of the location of the mapped muscles was verified by comparing the sagittal view of the 3D model of muscles with still photographs obtained from anatomic canine cadaver dissection. We believe that this information will provide a unique and valuable resource for veterinary researchers, clinicians and surgeons who wish to evaluate MRI images of the cervical spine. It will also serve as the foundation for ongoing work to develop a computational model of the canine cervical spine in which anatomical information is combined with electromyographic, kinematic and kinetic data.

Advances in the anatomic study of the interscapular region of the cat.

BackgroundNew clinical oriented approaches are supported by the integration of advanced imaging techniques, e.g. computed tomography and magnetic resonance, with gross anatomy imaging. The interscapular region of the cat is a typical site of a highly invasive infiltrative pathology, i.e. Feline Injection-Site Sarcoma. Even if chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been considered as pre-surgical therapies, extensive surgery is still the recommended treatment. Evidence suggested that the relationships between muscles, infiltrative mass and adjacent musculoskeletal structures could change according to the forelimb positions: a fact to be duly considered while planning the surgical approach.Anatomic and tomographic atlases provide only images of the interscapular region from cats positioned with their forelimbs extended cranially, which means that, they do not record musculoskeletal modifications due to the forelimb movements.Aim of this study was to provide detailed images of the changes occurring in the musculoskeletal structures of the interscapular region of cats according to their forelimb position by comparing cross-sectional gross anatomy, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.ResultsWe provide an atlas of normal cross-sectional anatomy, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the interscapular region of the cat, from the fifth cervical vertebra to the fifth thoracic vertebra. We compare and couple the slices obtained both in flexed and extended forelimb positioning with the animal maintained in sternal recumbency.ConclusionThis study shows a new and dynamic way to investigate the interscapular region of the cat and provides anatomical references for in vivo computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, considering changes in the muscular form according to the forelimb positioning. We believe that an in-depth anatomical knowledge of the interscapular region may be helpful to approach the study of any pathology located there and, in particular, to set up an appropriate therapy for the feline injection-site sarcoma.

Head and Neck Cross-Sectional Anatomy Learning Module

Abstract Introduction This module serves as a learning guide to normal cross-sectional anatomy of the head and neck for preclinical students enrolled in clinically-oriented human anatomy. The modul...

Computed tomography of the brain and associated structures of the one-humped camel (Camelus dromedarius): an anatomic study

The purpose of the study was to provide a description of normal cross-sectional anatomy of the camel brain and associated structures using computed tomography (CT) and macroscopic cross sections. Transverse images of two isolated camel cadaver heads were obtained by an axial CT equipment. CT scans were processed with a detailed algorithm using bone and soft-tissue windows settings, and compared with the corresponding frozen cross sections of the heads, to assist in the accurate identification of brain and associated structures. CT images provided good differentiation between the bones and the soft tissues of the head. These CT images are intended to be a useful anatomic reference in the interpretation for clinical CT imaging studies of the brain and associated structures in dromedary camels.

Improved Dissection Efficiency in Teaching Upper Respiratory System of Goat Using Normal Cross-Sectional Anatomy and Computed Tomography Techniques

Two heads of adult goats of native breed and of both sexes (one horned male and one unhorned female) clinically healthy goats, aging one and three years, were used for the present study. The appropriate samples were frozen then cut by an electric saw to cross-sections at the same distance 2cm thick slabs and were perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of preserved specimens. Cross-sectional anatomy and computed tomography of the head of goat were prepared, photographed, and compared with each other. Both shape and topography of the respiratory organs were demonstrated. This work included several successive images with their declaration of the upper respiratory system of nostrils, nasal cavity and their contents. The anatomical features of the respiratory organs were identified by both CT and cross-section images and denoted with the aid of anatomical texts. The obtained results explained that, both the cross sections and the CT images provided a good anatomical view and recent educational tool for study the respiratory organs of the goat.

Sectional Anatomic and Computed Tomography Features of the Nasal and Oral Cavities of the One-humped Camel (Camelus Dromedarius)

The purpose of the study was to provide a description of normal cross-sectional anatomy of the camel nasal and oral cavities using computed tomography (CT) and macroscopic cross-sections. Transverse images of two isolated camel cadaver heads were obtained by an axial CT equipment. Computed tomography scans were processed with a detailed algorithm using nasal and soft tissue windows settings and compared with the corresponding frozen cross-sections of the heads, to assist in the accurate identification of nasal and oral structures. In our study, nasal window provided excellent anatomic details of nasal conchae, bones and teeth; however, other soft tissue components of the nasal and oral cavities are better differentiated using a soft tissue window. These CT images are intended to be a useful anatomic reference in the interpretation for clinical CT imaging studies of the nasal and oral cavities in dromedary camels.

Anatomical Study of the Gastrointestinal Tract of a Pudu (Pudu puda) Using Contrast-Enhanced Abdominal Computed Tomography

The pudu (Pudu puda), which is the smallest deer in the world and inhabits central and southern Chile and Argentina, is a ruminant and a browsing herbivore. The aim of this study was to provide a reference for interpretation of the normal anatomy of the pudu's gastrointestinal tract as imaged by abdominal computed tomography (CT). For the study, one adult female pudu was used. After a 24-h fast, the pudu was anaesthetized and positioned in sternal recumbency at the CT table. Image acquisition began immediately after intravenous injection of contrast media (MD-76(®); 370 mgI/ml) into the cephalic vein. Injection of contrast material was administered as a biphasic protocol. First, a manual bolus of contrast material was injected at a rate of 4 ml/s. Then, an additional continuous infusion injection (0.1 ml/min) was performed for adequate opacification of vascular structures. Transverse images of 5 mm thickness and 5 mm interval were obtained with a fourth-generation CT scanner, from the ninth thoracic vertebra (T9) until the first sacral (S1) vertebrae. CT images were labelled and compared with anatomical reference images for ruminants. Structures that were identified in the abdominal cavity included the stomach with its four compartments (rumen, reticulum, omasum and abomasum), the small and large intestines, liver, spleen, kidneys and some major blood vessels (aorta, caudal vena cava). The distal loop of the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the pancreas and lymph nodes could not be identified. The resulting CT images provide a reference for normal cross-sectional abdominal anatomy of the adult pudu.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Cranial Abdomen of the Dog

Vilar, J.M., Vazquez, J.M., Raillard, M. and Arencibia, A. 2010. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cranial abdomen of the dog. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 38: 81–83. To describe the normal cross sectional anatomy of the cranial abdomen of the dog, using MR images and macroscopic sections with vascular latex repletion one dog was used. Transverse, sagital and dorsal T-l weighted spin echo images provided excellent resolution of the anatomical structures of this region, whilst vascular-filled gross sections contributed important information for identification of MR images. This information could serve for accurate identification and topography of organs and anatomical structures of cranial abdomen of the dog.

Sectional Anatomy of the Abdomen and Pelvis (Out of Print)

Abstract This tutorial serves as an introduction to normal cross-sectional anatomy of the abdomen and pelvis for preclinical students enrolled in medical human structure. This resource stimulates s...

Procedimentos percutâneos pélvicos guiados por imagem: revisão das principais vias de acesso

Os procedimentos percutâneos orientados por imagem têm ganhado espaço crescente na radiologia intervencionista, constituindo ferramenta eficaz para a abordagem diagnóstica e terapêutica de massas e coleções nos diversos segmentos corporais. No entanto, localizações pélvicas profundas ainda representam grande desafio para o radiologista, por causa da interposição de estruturas anatômicas. Para que o procedimento seja bem sucedido é fundamental o planejamento da via de acesso baseado no conhecimento detalhado da anatomia radiológica da pelve. As principais vias de acesso para a abordagem destas lesões são: transabdominais (anterior e lateral), extraperitoneal ântero-lateral, transvaginal, transretal e transglútea. O objetivo deste trabalho é fazer uma revisão da anatomia seccional pélvica normal, demonstrando as diversas vias de acesso para biópsias e drenagens guiadas pela ultra-sonografia e pela tomografia computadorizada, bem como discutir as principais vantagens e complicações potenciais de cada uma delas.

Computed tomographic anatomy of the temporomandibular joint in the young horse

The equine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its surrounding structures can be difficult to investigate in cases with a clinical problem related to the region. Little previous attention has been given either to a computed tomographic (CT) imaging protocol for the joint or an interpretation of the structures displayed in CT images of the normal joint. To provide a CT atlas of the normal cross-sectional anatomy of the equine TMJ using frozen and plastinated sections as anatomical reference. Eight TMJs from 4 immature pure-bred Spanish horses were examined by helical CT. Scans were processed with a detailed algorithm to enhance bony and soft tissue. Transverse CT images were reformatted into sagittal and dorsal planes. Transverse, sagittal and dorsal cryosections were then obtained, photographed and plastinated. Relevant anatomic structures were identified in the CT images and corresponding anatomical sections. In the CT images, a bone window provided excellent bone detail, however, the soft tissue components of the TMJ were not as well visualised using a soft tissue window. The articular cartilage was observed as a hyperattenuating stripe over the low attenuated subchondral bone and good delineation was obtained between cortex and medulla. The tympanic and petrous part of the temporal bone (middle and inner ear) and the temporohyoid joint were seen in close proximity to the TMJ. Helical CT provided excellent images of the TMJ bone components to characterise the CT anatomy of the normal joint. Detailed information is provided that may be used as a reference by equine veterinarians for the CT investigation of the equine TMJ and serve to assist them in the diagnosis of disorders of the TMJ and related structures (middle and inner ear). The study was performed at an immature stage and further studies of mature individuals are required in order to confirm that the clinical interpretation is not affected by changes occurring with age.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Cross Section Images of the Cat Thorax

Accurate interpretation of thoracic magnetic resonance images requires a thorough knowledge of anatomy of this region. The purpose of this communication is to describe the normal cross sectional anatomy of the thoracic cavity of the cat, using MR images, dissections and macroscopic sections. In this study, three cats were used. The animals were anesthetized and positioned in sternal recumbency in the MR scanner. MR imaging was performed at the Special Diagnostic Service of San Roque Clinic of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria with a superconducting magnet operating at a field strength of 1.5 Tesla and a human body coil. Spin echo pulse sequences were used to obtain T1‐weighted images in tranverse and sagittal planes. At the conclusion of imaging, the cats were euthanatized for medical reasons unrelated to disease of thorax. The cats were frozen and then sectioned using an electric band saw. The cuts were matched as closely as possible to the MR images for identifying the normal planimetric anatomy of the thoracic structures. MR T1‐weighted spin echo images provided excellent anatomic appearance of the thorax structures. In MR images the grey scale is directly related to the signal intensity of the thoracic cavity structures. Thus, fat and nerves had higher signal intensity compared with the lower signal intensity of the respiratory system. Bone marrow and muscles had a intermediate signal intensity and appeared gray. The intensity signal of the articular fluid permits a good differentiation of the opposing cartilage surfaces on all MR images. The planimetric or sectional anatomy of the thoracic cavity in the cat allows a correct morphologic and topographic evaluation of the anatomic structures, being helpful tool for the identification of the MR images. The information presented should serve as an initial reference to evaluate MR images of the feline thorax and to assist interpretation of lesions of this region.

Lymph node imaging: multidetector CT (MDCT)

Advances in cross-sectional imaging, including conventional and helical (spiral) CT and multidetector (MDCT) and MR imaging, now allow detailed evaluation of the anatomy and pathology of the neck and thoracic inlet. The major structures are identified by their appearance and that of contrasting fatty tissue planes surrounding the soft tissues. These structures include the larynx, trachea, thyroid, and parathyroid glands as well as the vessels, lymph node chains, nerves, and supporting muscles. A thorough understanding of the normal cross-sectional anatomy is fundamental to properly interpret pathologic processes. Pathologic processes include both solid and cystic masses. Most solid masses are enlarged lymph nodes. In contrast, cystic masses are of variable pathology, and their characteristic appearances and locations with respect to normal neck anatomy allow a confident diagnosis to be made from a brief differential diagnostic spectrum.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the normal brain in a newborn dromedary camel

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has proved to be valuable in the study and evaluation of the anatomy (Goncalves-Ferreira et al., 2001) and pathology (Arnold and Matthews, 2002) of the central nervous system in human medicine. Several reports on the use of MRI in small animals have been published but these deal mostly with cranioencephalic structures (Kraft et al., 1989; Hudson et al., 1995). The use of MRI in large animal medicine is currently limited by the logistical problems of acquiring images. MRI imaging studies on the horse head have been performed on autopsy specimens (Chaffin et al., 1997; Arencibia et al., 2000), but no work has been reported on the use of MRI in camels. An accurate interpretation of the planimetric MR normal anatomy is necessary for the evaluation of pathological tissues and so the objective of the present study was to provide an overview of the normal cross-sectional anatomy of the brain and associated structures of the newborn dromedary camel using transverse MR images and gross sections. The head of a newborn dromedary camel was refrigerated and imaged within 12 h to minimize postmortem changes. MR imaging was performed using a superconducting magnet operating at a field strength of 1.5 T and a human head coil. Images were acquired in transverse planes with fast spin–echo sequences. T1-

Assessment of anterior shoulder instability by CT arthrography.

Computed tomography (CT) immediately after double-contrast shoulder arthrography was taken in twenty-two young male patients with anterior shoulder instability including recurrent dislocation and subluxation. This recently developed technique called CT arthrography can provide significant information about patients with glenohumeral instability which is difficult to obtain by conventional arthrography. Information about glenoid labrum pathology is useful for proper management of the shoulder with instability. Lesions identified in this study include anterior labral defects (attenuation, tear, displacement), anterior capsular distension and/or detachment, Hill-Sachs lesion, anterior glenoid rim compression fracture, and fracture of scapula. This article describes the method used in CT arthrography of the glenohumeral joint, reviews the normal cross-sectional anatomy, and emphasizes the importance of the application of CT arthrography in the shoulder disorder with instability. CT arthrography of the glenohumeral joint is easy to perform, is accurate, and has lower radiation dose than arthrotomography.

Computed tomography of axillary and supraclavicular adenopathy

The normal cross-sectional anatomy of the axillary and supraclavicular regions is demonstrated. One hundred and sixty chest computed tomography scans were reviewed and criteria for differentiating normal axillary and supraclavicular structures from enlarged lymph nodes established. Axillary structures 14 mm or larger are suggestive of axillary adenopathy. Axillary structures 10-13 mm in size raise the possibility of adenopathy.