Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus) Head Vasculature Imaging and Anatomy.

Detailed vascular anatomy is poorly documented in most avian species. Additionally, most publications depict anatomy in 2-dimensional picture formats that do not accurately reflect the 3-dimensional orientation of the vasculature. Three deceased grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) were submitted to the Comparative Anatomy Research Project (formerly the Grey Parrot Anatomy Project) for computed tomography (CT) imaging with BriteVu® post-mortem vascular contrast. Individual segmentation of micro-CT data sets are being reviewed to define the anatomy of the vascular system of the grey parrot head. Advanced 3-dimensional modeling using Avizo 7.1 will be used to segment the vasculature to better understand their relationship with the skeletal and soft tissue structures present in the head and beak. The major vasculature of the skull and beak is identified based on the Handbook of Avian Anatomy: Nomina Anatomica Avium. These results allow improved diagnostic evaluation and surgical planning for diseases of the head and beak of grey parrots. At the time of writing, three grey parrot models were included in the study; however, additional samples are expected to minimize the effect of individual variation. The information gained from this study can serve as both a model for anticipated anatomy in grey parrots and other psittacine species and to perform similar studies in other animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]