An Anatomical Evaluation of the Thoracic Cavity in Majorera goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) using Computed Tomography and Echocardiography.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the anatomic features of the normal thorax of Majorera goats using computed tomography, transthoracic echocardiography gross dissections and anatomical sections. Contrast-enhanced transverse CTA images were obtained in two goats using a helical CT scanner. All sections were imaged with a bone, soft tissue and pulmonary windows setting. Moreover, two-dimensional multiplanar reformation and three-dimensional cardiac volume-rendered reconstructed images were obtained. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed in two goats obtaining longitudinal and transverse images aboarding all planes described. After CT and transthoracic echocardiography imaging, two cadaver goats were dissected and sectioned to facilitate the interpretation of the intrathoracic cardiovascular structures to the corresponding to computed tomography and transthoracic echocardiography images. Anatomic details of the thorax of the goats were identified according to the characteristics of CT density and echogenicity of the different organic tissues and compared with the corresponding anatomical sections and gross dissections. The information obtained provided a valid anatomic pattern of the thorax of goats, and useful information for CT and TTE anatomical and clinical studies of this region.