Estudo radiográfico do veado-catingueiro, Mazama gouazoubira (Fischer, 1814): recomendações metodológicas e descrição do esqueleto axial e membro pélvico

Abstract

The brocket deer or wild deer, Mazama gouazoubira, is a species that inhabits from southern Mexico to northern Argentina, its populations are relatively abundant and it is believed to be the most common deer in South America, being classified globally as “Little Concern” (LC) by the IUCN, in some states such as Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná and Rio de Janeiro the species can be classified as threatened. Due to human interactions, such as being run over and poaching, the number of deer in screening centers is high, with multifractures being the most frequent injuries. In these animals, a quick and accurate diagnosis and the application of protocols for targeted and practical exams for the realization and interpretation of radiographic images can be the key to the success of the treatment and its total rehabilitation. To carry out this study, specimens of M. gouazoubira from the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, who died after an attempt at rehabilitation, were used. The total sample was 18 specimens in different states of conservation and integrity, and 8 specimens presented the complete skeleton for study. The specimens were taxonomically identified and had the axial skeleton and pelvic limbs radiographed following a radiographic protocol for small animals. Angiography was tested with positive contrast with barium sulfate on the head of one of the animals, which proved to be viable for identifying the arterial pattern. After testing the positions of the head of M. gouazoubira for radiographic studies, it was concluded that the most recommended positions were: laterolateral, laterolateral oblique, dorsoventral and rostrocaudal and with the possibility of complementary execution of the 20º ventrodorsal with (45º ventroflexion) if suspected in the region of the tympanic bulla. The topography of bones in M. gouazoubira is similar to that of other species, such as cattle, sheep and other cervids, its vertebral formula presented in all individuals 7 cervical, 13 thoracic, 6 lumbar and 5. Number of coccygeal vertebrae were not measured with precision in radiographic images. The pelvic limb skeleton also showed many similarities with other domestic ruminants, with some variations such as the presence of phalanges in the vestigial fingers, II and IV. In general, the long bones presented a thinner and more elongated pattern.