Ultrasonography, Microcomputed Tomography, and Macroscopic Preparation in an Anatomical Study of the Thoracic Limb of the Golden-Headed Lion Tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysomelas)

Featured Application The results of our study can be used by veterinarians dealing with exotic species. However, the comparison of results between the three methods confirms the usefulness of the imaging tech-niques and also indicates the high precision of the traditional examination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the normal anatomy of the forearm of the golden-headed lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysomelas) using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) and ultrasonography (US) and then compare the results with the results of a gross anatomy dissection of the forearm. The results of the US examination of the musculoskeletal system of the tamarin forearm were not satisfactory. US imaging enabled observation of the shape of the soft tissue and the size of muscle groups; however, we distinguished more muscles by traditional methods. In addition, in the dissection study, the assessment of the muscles was easier. Examination of the forearm bones using micro-CT provided a complete picture of the bones in this part of the body and was less time-consuming than traditional methods. Imaging allows the anatomy to be represented as a 3D image. However, some methods are not accurate; as in our study, US did not allow a complete assessment of the forearm musculature.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the normal anatomy of the forearm of the golden-headed lion tamarin using micro-CT and ultrasonography, finding that ultrasonography results were not satisfactory compared to traditional dissection methods in assessing the musculoskeletal system.