Gross Anatomical, Radiographic and Doppler Sonographic Approach to the Infra-auricular Parotid Region in Donkey (Equus asinus).

The research examines the anatomy of the infra-auricular parotid region in donkeys, using both living and deceased specimens. The study aims to improve safety and effectiveness in desensitization and anesthesia methods applied to the ear canal and tympanic membrane, as well as providing further understanding of the structures located in this area.

Anatomy of the Infra-auricular Parotid Region in Donkeys

• The internal auricular nerve was found to split into two branches, forming a V-shape with the caudal auricular nerve at its origin.
• The styloid process of auricular cartilage served as a useful landmark for ultrasound-guided anesthesia to the internal auricular and auriculopalpebral nerve.
• The study found that the great auricular nerve could be easily palpated under the skin. All attempts at safely desensitizing this nerve were successful.
• The auricular branch of the mandibular nerve was seen to join with the auriculopalpebral branch of the facial nerve.

Vasculature and Glandular Tissue in Donkey’s Infra-auricular Parotid Region

• The maxillary vein was seen to descend, partially embedded within the texture of glandular tissue of the parotid gland.
• The parotid gland was divided into five segments, each clearly demarcated by the tributaries of the maxillary vein. These tributaries converged into three main collecting radicles that pour into the parotid duct.
• The mandibular duct received around 12 to 15 fine radicles, supplied by a separate branch of the external carotid artery.

Application of Doppler Sonographic Technique

• The use of the Doppler sonographic technique in donkeys allowed for better diagnosis of ear affections and the anatomical evaluation of the vasculature of salivary glands.
• The study suggested that this technique could be used to detect critical abnormalities such as stenosis (narrowing of a blood vessel or other tubular organ or structure), thrombosis (formation of a blood clot), or other vasopathological affections by measuring their resistivity and pulsatility indices.