Utilização de aparelho radiográfico portátil e sensor intraoral odontológico na obtenção de radiografias de cavidade celomática de passeriformes

Abstract

Radiography is an essential complementary examination for the identification of soft tissue alterations in aves, primarily in passerines. Due to their small size, reactive behavior, and minimal exhibition of pathological symptoms, diseases that do not present with external signs often progress chronically before these birds can be examined and treated. When using conventional radiographic equipment, image detail is frequently lost due to longer exposure times, resulting in motion artifacts, as well as limitations in freely adjusting the focal-film distance for avian patients. The use of dental radiographic equipment presents a portable and convenient alternative for conducting radiographic examinations, especially for animals of small size, low total density, and weight. In this work, the objective was to evaluate the use of dental radiographs in the coelomatic cavity of passerines. Radiographs of passerines weighing between 10g and 38g were obtained using a dental X-ray machine, and the images were evaluated for their potential as a clinical and diagnostic assessment tool. Simultaneously, the most viable restraint methods for acquiring high-quality radiographic images were assessed. A reduced exposure time was used, equivalent to 0.32 mAs and 70 kVp on an intraoral digital plate. Using this tool, it was possible to obtain high-quality projections, allowing for preventive, evaluative, and diagnostic examinations, such as the measurement of internal organs and topographic and anatomical assessment of the coelomic cavity. Although the dental X-ray machine cannot replace conventional radiographic systems, it presents an excellent alternative due to its lower cost and unique advantages, such as portability, shorter exposure time, and increased operator safety concerning radiation exposure.