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Updated: Jul 13, 2025
06:59
In Vivo Evaluation of the Mechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of the Rat Tongue
Published on: July 6, 2017
8.8K
Characterizing tongue deformations during mastication using changes in planar components of three-dimensional angles.
Rachel A Olson1, Stephane J Montuelle2, Susan H Williams3
1Department of Biology, University of Akron, 302 Buchtel Commons, Akron, OH 44325, USA.
Summary
This study quantifies 3D tongue deformations during pig chewing using biplanar fluoroscopy and marker implants. Tongue shape changes are complex and largely independent of jaw position, adapting to food bolus dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Mammalian Physiology
- Imaging Technology
Background:
- Understanding of tongue deformations during mammalian mastication is limited.
- Recent advancements in multiplanar imaging technology offer new possibilities for quantification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify three-dimensional (3D) tongue shape changes during chewing in pigs.
- To characterize tongue deformations in anatomically relevant directions using a novel marker implant configuration and biplanar fluoroscopy.
Main Methods:
- A standardized radiopaque marker implant configuration was used in pigs.
- Biplanar fluoroscopy captured marker movement to quantify 3D tongue shape changes.
- Transverse and sagittal components of marker angles characterized deformations.
Main Results:
- Tongue deformations were quantified in transverse (bending) and sagittal (arching/twisting) planes.
- Complex deformations were observed, often asymmetrically.
- Tongue deformations showed variability with jaw gape but were largely independent of jaw position.
Conclusions:
- The study presents a repeatable method for quantifying 3D tongue deformations in animals.
- Tongue shape adaptation during chewing is complex and primarily driven by bolus properties rather than jaw position.
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