Imaging Studies of the Stifle Joint in <i>Puma concolor</i> (Linnaeus, 1771)
2025
Eduardo Burgarelli Mayrink Cardoso | Sheila Canevese Rahal | Jeana Pereira da Silva | Maria Jaqueline Mamprim | Jair Theodoro Filho | Gabriela Montezel Frigerio | Paulo Hilário Nascimento Saldiva | Mário Manuel Dinis Ginja | Karin Werther
Although the stifle joint of wild felines shares several characteristics observed in domestic cats, other characteristics are specific to each species. This study aimed to evaluate the stifle joints of eight <i>Puma concolor</i>, including two young and six adults, through different imaging examinations. All stifles were assessed using radiographs and computed tomography (CT). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on the stifles of one animal using 7 Tesla equipment. In all imaging modalities, the four sesamoid bones were detected. Meniscal mineralization was identified in the stifles of three adult animals and one young animal. The cruciate ligaments and menisci were identified on CT, with MRI providing better visualization. The mean values of CT measurements (cm<sup>2</sup>) in the sagittal section included patella (2.475), medial fabella (0.481), lateral fabella (0.772), popliteal sesamoid (0.222), and medial meniscus (0.051). No differences were found in HU values between the central trabecular bone of the patella and popliteal sesamoid, the cortical bone of the patella and lateral and medial fabellas, or the cortical bone of the patella and popliteal sesamoid. In conclusion, the descriptions of the stifle of <i>Puma concolor</i> from the different imaging methods contribute to understanding the species and can serve as a basis for identifying alterations.
Show more [+] Less [-]AGROVOC Keywords
Bibliographic information
This bibliographic record has been provided by Directory of Open Access Journals