COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF PECTORAL GIRDLE INJURIES IN TWO CHELONIANS

摘要

Radiographic evaluation of the pectoral and pelvic girdles in chelonians is often complicated by the superimposition of the shell structures. The following report describes two cases where computed tomography (CT) was used in addition to radiography.A long-term captive, 4.6-kg, adult, 11-yr-old, male, radiated tortoise (Geochelone radiata) was admitted for evaluation of a 2-wk history of shifting lameness and muscle weakness. The animal was reported to be in good body condition with decreased appetite. Initial evaluation included physical examination, hematology and plasma chemistry analysis, fecal analysis and culture, and whole body radiography. On physical and radiographic examinations, diffuse swelling of the left pelvic limb was observed.