High-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of the Coelomic Organs in Three Species of Chelonians

: The aim of this study was to describe the normal anatomy of coelomic organs in three different species of chelonians using high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This study also describes a rapid study protocol to examine chelonians without the use of sedation. A 1.5-T superconducting magnet with volume or surface coils was used for the study. Sixteen healthy turtles belonging to three different species: 3 yellow-bellied sliders (Trachemys scripta scripta), 3 marginated tortoise (Testudo marginata), and 10 Hermann's tortoises (Testudo hermanni) were considered. The images were obtained using the following sequences: T1-weighted (T1W) turbo spin echo (TSE) acquired in the transverse and dorsal planes, T2-weighted (T2W) TSE 3D acquired in the sagittal plane, and short-tau inversion recovery (STIR) in the transverse plane. No contrast medium was used. All studies were feasible, fast, and yielded images of good quality in all the sequences. TSE T2W images had the best signal-to-noise ratio. The scan time was approximately 15-20 min. The majority of the coelomic organs were clearly identified, with the exception of the pancreas, adrenal glands, and ureters. In conclusion, high-field MRI in unsedated chelonians is feasible and fast and yields diagnostic images of the majority of the coelomic organs in all three species evaluated.