Computed Tomographic and Radiographic Studies of the Hyoid Skeleton in Dromedary Camels

Alhussain, Abdualaziz; Marzok, Mohamed A.; Al Mohamad, Zakriya; Shousha, Saad A.; Nazih, Mohamed A.; El-Sherif, Mohamed W.

doi:10.21608/ejvs.2025.384296.2837

Computed Tomographic and Radiographic Studies of the Hyoid Skeleton in Dromedary Camels

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of Clinical Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia

² Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, KSA.

³ Department of Clinical Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.

⁴ Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia.

⁵ Department of anatomy and embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, New Valley University,

⁶ Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, New Valley University, Al kharga, New Valley 27511, Egypt.

10.21608/ejvs.2025.384296.2837

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the anatomical structure of the hyoid apparatus in dromedary camels using computed tomography (CT) and X-ray imaging techniques to provide a detailed understanding of its morphology and functional relationships. CT scans were performed on twelve camel cadavers’ heads to visualize and assess the hyoid apparatus. X-ray scans performed on twenty-five healthy live camels. The images were analyzed to determine bone composition, articulation points, and any anatomical variations compared to other large mammals. Both CT and X-ray imaging revealed the distinct components of the camel’s hyoid apparatus, including the basihyoid, stylohyoid, thyrohyoid, ceratohyoid, and epihyoid bones. Notably, the absence of a lingual process in the basihyoid bone was confirmed. CT images provided superior resolution of articulation points, while X-rays offered adequate overviews of bone structure. No pathological alterations were noted in the scanned specimens. CT scanning offers enhanced visualization of the camel’s hyoid apparatus compared to X-rays, allowing for more precise anatomical assessments. This imaging technique can facilitate clinical and surgical applications involving the head and neck of camels, supporting improved diagnosis and treatment planning.

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