computed tomographic anatomy and topography of the non-respiratory organs of coelomic cavity of european pond turtle (emys orbicularis)

background: reptiles, especially turtles that inhabit both on land and water, have made some special adaptations. many people keep turtles as pets. therefore, the anatomical knowledge of turtles should be more carefully evaluated and used for therapeutic purposes. one of these turtles is european pond turtle (emys orbicularis). most of vital systems are enclosed by the carapace and the plastron so it cannot be examined customarily by clinicians. the noninvasive diagnostic imaging techniques provide detailed information concerning these organs. objectives: this study was conducted to give complete topographic information and knowledge about the position of the non respiratory organs of the coelomic cavity in the european pond turtle using computed tomography (ct) and usual anatomic methods. methods: 10 adult turtles (5 female, 5 male) were selected. all scans were obtained on a two detector scanner. in anatomical study three female and three male turtles were dissected. two other female and male turtles were sectioned transversely. results: the results showed some differences in the position of the organs including stomach, gall bladder, liver and heart with those of other species. moreover, the topography of the organs is described in retracted and protruded neck in this article. retraction of the neck had an influence on the position of the organs such as oesophagus, stomach, liver and heart. conclusions: the general morphological features of the non respiratory organs of the coelonic cavity of european pond turtle were examined by ct images and macroscopically in this study. significant differences were found compared with other species.