Turtles get X-Rays too!

Posted in: Veterinary

The purpose of World Turtle Day is to educate people about the things that they can do to protect the habitats of turtle and tortoises. The day was created as a yearly observance to help people celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world. The day is celebrated in a number of ways all over the world from dressing up as turtles or wearing green summer dresses, to saving turtles caught on highways, to research activities. Turtle Day lesson plans and craft projects encourage teaching about turtles in classrooms.

Radiography of turtles is routinely used for evaluation of traumatic injuries and the gastrointestinal and reproductive tract. An x-ray exam typically includes lateral and dorsoventral views. Additional collimated views of areas of interest are often obtained in specific species like the craniocaudal view   to complete the study.

Unlike dogs or cats, whole-body radiographs are taken of turtles in order to visualize the entire main body cavity. In addition, horizontal beam radiographs of turtles and tortoises are important for visualization of the lungs. Turtles can undergo x-ray exams awake, but general anesthesia is sometimes required to ensure good-quality positioning. Conscious turtles and tortoises have the ability to hold their extremities and head within or close to their shells. In the instance of fracture, sedation or anesthesia may be needed to relax the neck or extremity and isolate it, avoiding superimposition with the shell, for a more complete evaluation. Radiographs provide critical information that can greatly affect the outcome of rehabilitation efforts

Z&Z Medical is proud to offer the imaging tools necessary for imaging turtles and tortoises. Popular items like Cassette Holders, Vinyl Bolsters, Radiation Protection items, and other Immobilizers are available on our website and also in the Veterinary section on our website to browse the many accessories that we offer.

6 months ago
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