EXTRAVASATION OF CONTRAST MEDIA AFTER SUBCARAPACIAL VESSEL INJECTION IN THREE CHELONIAN SPECIES

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Reptile Medicine

Background:

• The subcarapacial vessel is frequently used for venipuncture and medication in chelonians.
• Increasing adverse event reports necessitate safety evaluations of this common practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To anatomically evaluate the subcarapacial vessel in chelonians using computed tomography (CT).
• To assess the safety and potential risks of using the subcarapacial vessel for medical procedures.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) was performed on 25 sedated chelonians (box turtles, red-eared sliders, red-footed tortoises).
• Contrast was administered into the subcarapacial vessel to visualize its anatomy and detect extravasation.

Main Results:

• Vessel visualization varied by species (50% box turtles/red-footed tortoises, 100% red-eared sliders).
• All species showed contrast extravasation into the subarachnoid space.
• Red-footed tortoises exhibited higher rates of extravasation into the subarachnoid space, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.

Conclusions:

• Anatomical variations in red-footed tortoises, such as cranial lung extension and carapace shape, contribute to higher extravasation risks.
• The subcarapacial vessel poses significant risks for intravenous medication administration in certain chelonian species.