Measuring morphological parameters of the pelvic diaphragm muscles using computed tomography in healthy dogs

Evaluation of pelvic diaphragm muscles in dogs merits clinical attention because of the anatomical importance and their involvement in perineal hernia. This study aimed to evaluate the normal pelvic diaphragm muscles (levator ani and coccygeus muscles) using the computed tomography (CT) scan. For this purpose, 10 male and 10 female clinically normal, adult intact mixed-breed dogs weighing 15.00 to 20.00 kg were selected randomly. All animals underwent CT examination under general anesthesia and positioned in sternal recumbency. All the CT images were taken and reconstructed with a same protocol. The measurements of the pelvic diaphragm muscles were performed based on the presented guideline to the observer. The results were presented descriptively. The mean lengths of the coccygeus muscle in CT images were evaluated 4.60 cm for males and 4.30 cm for females. The mean lengths of levator ani muscle in CT images were measured 4.90 cm in males and 4.50 cm in females. In conclusion, the results of the present study can be beneficial to clinicians and researchers for further evaluation of the supporting muscles in pelvic cavity and underlying anatomical changes in perineal hernia in dogs.