Morphometric characterization of the bovine os cordis using computed tomography: Influence of age, sex, and breed

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Abstract
The os cordis (dextrum and sinistrum) shows considerable variation in its presence, number, size, shape, and position, not only among species but also among individuals of the same breeds. However, quantitative data in cattle remain limited. This study aimed to determine the frequency, number, and anatomical location of ossa cordis in cattle and to explore the influence of age, sex, and breed on the osteometric, weight, and densitometric measurements of the os cordis dextrum. The correlations between these measurements and animal’s age were also examined. A total of 23 bovine hearts from five breeds, including both sexes and divided into two age groups (young adults and adults), were analyzed. Heart and carcass weights were recorded for each animal. After dissection, the ossa cordis were removed, and three osteometric measurements along with bone weight were taken for the os cordis dextrum. Computed tomography was used to obtain three densitometric measurements. Data was analyzed in R using univariate, bivariate, and multivariate methods. Results showed that the os cordis dextrum was present in all individuals, whereas the os cordis sinistrum appeared only in older animals. Furthermore, adults had a significantly larger and heavier os cordis dextrum than young adults. Overall, the weight, size, and density of the os cordis dextrum increased with age. These findings suggest that the os cordis plays a crucial role in supporting and protecting the heart as cattle mature.

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