Labeled cross-sectional anatomy of the horse head on CT imaging

Labeled cross-sectional anatomy of the horse head on CT imaging

Labeled cross-sectional anatomy of the horse head on CT imaging


Introduction

Interpreting head radiographs is difficult, primarily because of the many superimpositions of anatomical structures of varying densities (bone, teeth, soft tissue and gas). Even with multiple radiographic views, some interpretations remain complicated. On the other hand, CT scans allow a serial slice analysis thus eliminating superimpositions.In addition, by optimizing contrast, one can highlight either bone or soft tissue.

Equine head CT scans are useful in many clinical situations: dental, sinus and mandibular disorders, neurological disorders, traumas, mass characterizations or tumor extension assessments, surgical planning, etc. Similarly to distal extremities of the limb, CT scans of the equine head can be performed on a standing non anesthetized horse, making it a quick examination that is easier to recommend to owners.

However, a good knowledge of anatomy is essential for interpreting head CT scans: the aim of this module is to provide students, veterinary practitioners and radiologists with detailed information on the normal anatomy of the adult horse's head.
 

Material and methods

This CT examination of the head was conducted by Dr. Susanne AEB Boroffka, dipl. ECVDI, PhD (Utrecht, Netherlands), on a horse that is healthy, standing, and sedated. It extends from the oral region to the first cervical vertebra. 

The anatomical structures have been labeled by Stephan Mahler, DVM, MA, MSc, PhD (Veterinary Anatomist - Montpellier, France), according to the Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria (NAV). 

They have been grouped into different themes:

  • Body parts
  • Regions
  • Bone
    • Cranium (General Anatomy)
    • Occipital bone
    • Basisphenoid bone
    • Presphenoid bone
    • Pterygoid bone
    • Temporal bone
    • Parietal bone
    • Frontal bone
    • Ethmoid bone
    • Vomer
    • Nasal bone
    • Lacrimal bone
    • Maxilla
    • Bone of ventral nasal concha
    • Incisive bone
    • Palatine bone
    • Zygomatic bone
    • Mandible
    • Hyoid apparatus
    • Vertebral column
  • Sutures of the head
  • Joints
  • Muscles
    • Muscles of the head
    • Muscles of the eyeball
    • Masticatory muscle
    • Muscles of neck
  • Digestive system
    • Oral cavity
    • Teeth
    • Teeth - Numbering
    • Glands of mouth
    • Tongue
    • Pharynx
    • Oesophagus
  • Respiratory system
    • External nose
    • Nasal cavity
    • Paranasal sinuses
    • Larynx
  • Eye
  • Ear
    • External ear
    • Middle ear
    • Internal ear
  • Arteries
  • Veins
  • Lymph nodes
  • Central nervous system

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