Normal computed tomographic features and reference values for the coelomic cavity in pet parrots

Abstract

BackgroundThe increasing popularity gained by pet birds over recent decades has highlighted the role of avian medicine and surgery in the global veterinary scenario; such a need for speciality avian medical practice reflects the rising expectation for high-standard diagnostic imaging procedures. The aim of this study is to provide an atlas of matched anatomical cross-sections and contrast-enhanced CT images of the coelomic cavity in three highly diffused psittacine species.ResultsContrast-enhanced computed tomographic studies of the coelomic cavity were performed in 5 blue-and-gold macaws, 4 African grey parrots and 6 monk parakeets by means of a 4-multidetector-row CT scanner. Both pre- and post-contrast scans were acquired. Anatomical reference cross-sections were obtained from 5 blue-and-gold macaw, 7 African grey parrot, and 9 monk parakeet cadavers. The specimens were stored in a −20 °C freezer until completely frozen and then sliced at 5-mm intervals by means of a band saw. All the slices were photographed on both sides. Individual anatomical structures were identified by means of the available literature. Pre- and post-contrast attenuation reference values for the main coelomic organs are reported in Hounsfield units (HU).ConclusionsThe results provide an atlas of matched anatomical cross-sections and contrast-enhanced CT images of the coelomic cavity in three highly diffused psittacine species.

Computed tomographic and radiographic morphometric study of cardiac and coelomic dimensions in captive blue‐fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva, Linnaeus, 1758) with varying body condition scores

“…While it was possible to assess the cardiac silhouette using CT, the atrial and ventricular chambers were not visible. According to Veladiano et al (2016), it was possible to view all four chambers in macaws, although intravenous contrast was used, which was not the case in the present study and did not impair the ability to perform accurate CT measurements.…”

“…Blue‐fronted Amazon parrots ( Amazona aestiva , Linnaeus, 1758) are popular pets and often kept in captivity (Brightsmith, ; Sick, ) due to characteristics such as an attractive appearance, interaction with the owner(s), and a long lifespan, which contribute to their popularity (Veladiano et al, ). In captivity, it is common for these birds to have diets based on oilseeds, which are rich in fat and low in minerals and vitamins, and may potentially lead to nutritional and cardiovascular disorders, compromising the quality of life of the birds (Orsini & Bondan, ; Péron & Grosset, ).…”

Cardiovascular parameters in capitive blue-fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva, Linnaeus, 1758) with varying body condition scores

“…While it was possible to assess the cardiac silhouette through the CT scan, the atrial and ventricular chambers were not visible. According to VELADIANO et al [3], it was possible to view all four chambers in macaws, but intravenous contrast was used, which did not occur in the present study. When comparing the width of the cardiac silhouette, the width of the coelom and the ratio between the two in the radiographic and tomographic images, we noted that the values were higher in the radiography.…”

“…Blue-fronted Amazon parrots ( Amazona aestiva , Linnaeus, 1758) are popular pets and are often kept in captivity [1,2], with characteristics such as an attractive appearance, interaction with the owner and a long lifespan helping to explain such popularity [3]. In captivity, it is common for these birds to have diets based on oilseeds, which are rich in fat and low in minerals and vitamins, and may potentially lead to nutritional and cardiovascular disorders, compromising the quality of life of the birds [4,5].…”

Computed tomographic and gross anatomy of the head of the blue‐fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva)

“…Pet birds have gained increasing popularity over the last decades, and the avian caseload has increased in veterinary practices worldwide (Veladiano et al., 2016b). This phenomenon is thought to reflect the strong emotional bond between pet birds and their owners and the high economic value of some bird species (Freitas et al., 2015).…”