Anatomical Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Architecture of the Kidneys in the Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Background: Chinchilla is a laboratory animal used in anatomical urinary tract research. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are tools methods used in the diagnosis and assessment of kidney diseases. The aim of this study is to determine the anatomical architecture of the kidneys in chinchillas by computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Methods: A total of 12 chinchillas (6 male and 6 female) aged 18 months. After anesthesia computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging was performed. CT and MRI were analyzed with a software program. 3D reconstruction of the obtained images was performed. Result: Computed tomography showed that the right kidney starts at the midline of the 1st lumbar vertebra in the transversal plane and ends at the cranial end of the 4th lumbar vertebra and the left kidney ends at the cranial end of the 3rd lumbar vertebra and the caudal end of the 5th lumbar vertebra. Pelvis renalis had higher X-ray density compared to medulla and cortex renal. The left kidney was bean-shaped and the right kidney was oval-shaped. Anatomical images were obtained on T1 contrast magnetic resonance T2 magnetic resonance images showed the corticomedullar system and the pyelocalyx system better.