Pelvis Anatomy and Morphometric Analysis in New Zealand Rabbits

Abstract

This study aims to obtain three-dimensional models of the cavum pelvis in New Zealand rabbits of both genders using CT images, to measure the pelvis diameters and angles through the created digital models, and to compare female and male New Zealand Rabbits in terms of sexual dimorphism. A total of 20 New Zealand rabbits, 10 females and 10 males, were used in this study. Computed tomography (CT) images of the animals were taken, the images were reconstructed with the MIMICS 20.1 program, and a three-dimensional model of the pelvic cavity was obtained from the two-dimensional images. Morphometric data were obtained by making diameter and angle measurements on the resulting 3D model. Then, the rabbits were dissected and the os coxae was exposed and the anatomical formations were named. When pelvimetry measurements in female and male rabbits were compared, it was seen that all values except pelvic tilt were higher in females. The data reveal that there is no significant difference in the volume and surface area of the right and left os coxae between male and female rabbits (P > .05). In this study comparing the morphometric differences of the pelvis in female and male New Zealand rabbits, volume and surface area data were shared for the first time. The collected data could be used for sex discrimination in rabbits, assist physicians in diagnosing patients, serve as a reference for clinical practices, and form the basis for new research.