Structural investigations of the normal ostrich head using anatomical sections, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging.

Abstract

Background: The significance of the ostrich (Struthio camelus) has increased recently due to the growth of the global ostrich farming industry. Morphological and diagnostic imaging of the ostrich head presents challenges for enhancing clinical treatment and veterinary care, particularly concerning surgical disorders in the head and paranasal sinuses.

Aim: This study aims to guide veterinarians in improving the accuracy of clinical diagnoses and treatment for upper respiratory tract and cranial conditions, particularly in surgical cases involving the head and paranasal sinuses.

Methods: Ten healthy adult ostrich heads (Struthio camelus) were collected for anatomical examination. This sample consisted of 5 males (average age: 1.84 ± 0.32 years) and 5 age-matched females (average age: 2.02 ± 0.311 years). The study focused on the cranial, orbital, nasal, and oropharyngeal cavities, along with their contents and paranasal sinuses. The examination included the analysis of bony and cartilaginous structures, as well as soft tissues and cavities, using median, four sagittal, and five cross-anatomical sections. Subsequently, the specimens underwent diagnostic screening using CT and MRI.

Results: Here, we found that the ostrich has two oval featherless nostrils covered by a characteristic operculum at its entrance. The nasal septum separates the nasal cavity, which is supported by the rostral cartilaginous part. There were three features of nasal conchae: rostral (T-shape), middle (coiled bullae), and caudal (triangular), which differ from other bird species. Two paranasal sinuses were detected including triangular-shaped infraorbital and two identical frontal sinuses. The maxillary rhamphotheca had a median culmen and lateral tomium, while the mandibular rhamphotheca also had a median gonys and lateral tomium. The brain was divided into the hindbrain (consisting of medulla oblongata and cerebellum), the midbrain (peduncles of the cerebrum and optic lobes), and the forebrain (thalamus, pineal body, hypophysis, optic tracts and chiasm, cerebral hemispheres, and olfactory lobes). All last structures were compared and verified by CT and MRI.

Conclusion: This study provides an atlas of anatomical cross-sections, CT, and MRI scans of the ostrich head, which can serve as valuable guidance for veterinarians to improve diagnoses and treatments, ultimately enhancing health outcomes for these birds.