Echoanatomical Features of the Major Cervical Blood Vessels of the Juvenile Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

Author(s)

Justo, Andre Augusto ; Pereira Dutra, Gustavo Henrique ; Alfonso, Angelica ; Silva, Gabriel Oliveira ; Pogliani, Fabio Celidonio ; Carregaro, Adriano Bonfim ; Gaido Cortopassi, Silvia Renata

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CHELONIAN CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGY; v. 21, n. 1, p. 8-pg., 2022-06-01.

Abstract

Although ultrasonographic examination of the blood vessels of sea turtles has been a helpful tool in the clinical setting, there is a paucity of data on the normal cervical echoanatomy of green turtles (Chelonia mydas); such information could be valuable for conservation-focused efforts at rehabilitation facilities. We studied the echoanatomical features of the major blood vessels of the neck of juvenile green turtles by gross dissection of 5 deceased turtles and by ultrasonographic examination of 11 healthy animals. The external jugular and the vertebral veins were superficial (< 1.5 cm) and presented an echogenic and turbulent pattern of blood flow in B-mode examination; carotid arteries lied deeply within the neck (> 1.5 cm) and exhibited a laminar blood flow characterized by a parabolic velocity profile as determined by Doppler sonography. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/02439-3 - Determination of echocardiographic parameters in conscious or sevoflurane-anesthetized green turtles (Chelonia mydas)
• Grantee: André Augusto Justo
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master