A collaborative effort between University of Utah Health and Hogle Zoo has provided critical diagnostic information for Bill, a 61-year-old, ten-foot-long Siamese crocodile. After showing symptoms including weight loss, decreased appetite, and abdominal bloating, the animal underwent a complex CT scan to investigate the cause of these health changes.
The diagnostic process required significant coordination due to the physical challenges of scanning a 400-pound reptile. A team of more than 20 people used specialized tools and techniques to safely restrain Bill, who possesses a bite force exceeding 3,000 PSI. Under veterinary supervision, he was given a mild sedative before being moved on a custom-made platform to the University of Utah Health Department of Radiology.
Radiology supervisor Hassan Bourija and CT technologist Scott Ehrgott managed the technical challenges of the scan under the leadership of Edward Quigley, MD, PhD. Because the CT scanner table was shorter than the crocodile, the team had to scan the head, neck, chest, and abdomen first before flipping the animal to complete the rest of the body. Additionally, technicians had to manually program the radiation dose to account for Bill's large size and thick armored skin.
The CT scan results revealed several stones in Bill's stomach. While crocodiles naturally swallow stones to assist with digestion, these stones may be contributing to his recent symptoms. The imaging also confirmed that his bloodwork was normal and showed no evidence of cancer.
Erika Crook, DVM, Dipl. ACZM, the Director of Animal Health for Hogle Zoo, noted that the heavy scales of crocodilians make routine veterinary diagnostics difficult, making the use of a specialized CT unit essential.
Following the procedure, Bill was returned to Hogle Zoo for recovery. Since returning to his habitat, he has shown improved appetite, increased energy, and reduced bloating. The Hogle Zoo team continues to monitor him and is currently weighing the potential benefits and risks of a stone-removal procedure based on his quality of life.
